Factors Affecting Enrollment and Dropout Rate in Adult Education Programs in Kenya: a Case Study of Kajiado North Sub-county, Kajiado County, Kenya

Abstract

The goal of the study was to identify the factors that contribute to enrolment and dropout rate in adult education programme in Kenya's Kajiado North Sub-county. The specific research questions were: What is the dropout rate in adult education programs in Kajiado North Sub County? What is the completion rate in adult education programs in Kajiado North Sub County? What factors explain the enrollment and the dropout rate of adult education learners in Kajiado North Sub County? Descriptive research design was employed in the study. The target population for the study consisted of adult education students. A random sample of 60 respondents was selected. Data from the survey of adult learners was supplemented with qualitative information from adult education teachers. Descriptive analysis and thematic analysis were used to analyse the data. According to the survey, adult education student enrolment levels have been on the decline, particularly between 2018 and 2020. Due to Covid-19 pandemic, the enrolment rate in 2020 was significantly lower than in previous years. The majority of adults engage in adult education courses in order to improve their life by learning new things and pursuing their aspirations to become better persons in the future. Others signed up for the adult education program because they missed out on the opportunity while they were younger and wanted to empower themselves through education. Financial difficulties, loss of jobs, lack of family support, and juggling family obligations with academic requirements were the main causes of dropouts. The study recommends that all the stakeholders in adult education should encourage adults to enroll by creating a conducive and enabling learning environment in all learning centers.