Influence of community participation on the management of water projects in Public Primary Schools in Sotik Sub-county, Kenya.

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to investigate the influence of community participation on management of water projects in public primary schools in Sotik Sub-county. The Government of Kenya and Non-Governmental Organizations have implemented many projects aimed at addressing the water crisis in Kenyan Schools; however most of these projects have been characterized with low level of Sustainability. In Kenya most water projects have performed dismally and most becoming un-operational and requiring rehabilitation. This is due to low level of community ownership of these water projects. The study will be guided by four objectives: to examine the extent to which community participation in planning, capacity building, fundraising and water management committees influences management of water projects in public primary schools in Sotik Sub County.The study was guided by community Arnstein(1969) theory of community participation.The study employed a descriptive survey research design. By employing this study design, both quantitative and qualitative data from a target population of 972 people consisting of head teachers, BOM chairpersons and PTA chairpersons since they are involved directly in implementation of water projects. Krejcie and Morgan‟s (1970) table was used to obtain a sample size of 278 respondents. Simple random sampling technique and purposive sampling were used to obtain the samples that responded to both questionnaire and interview schedule. The data was cleaned, edited and coded. Quantitative analysis was done using statistical packages (SPSS V 17) and qualitative data was analyzed thematically and the findings presented in form of percentages and tables. The study revealed that high level planning for water management is moderately done in schools. It also revealed that monitoring and evaluation was necessary to project success and its sustainability. Moreover, experienced experts were contracted to carry out project implementation. The respondents also agreed that they undergo regular training on ways of managing water projects in Schools. Sourcing of funds to implement water projects in Schools was found to be a challenge since most schools did not have funds at all. Based on the findings, it was concluded planning process is key to project success. The school managers should make decisions on implementation of water projects in schools. In addition, capacity building was proven to be empowering members with skills and experiences pertaining project implementation. Despite finance being a major factor in water management projects, most schools in Sotik Sub County had a challenge in raising funds. It was recommended that schools need to implement water projects in schools as this goes a long way in improving performance of the learners. The government should provide financial support to Schools to aid in implementation of water projects.