Exploring The Effects Of Terrorism On The Education Of Children In Daadab Refugee Camps

Abstract

This study examined the effects of terrorism on education in Dadaab Refugee Camps in the northeastern part of Kenya. Specifically, the study explored the impact of terrorism on secondary school students' behaviour, attendance, and academic performance. The prospect theory was used as the underpinning framework for examining and understanding the effects of terrorism on education. Primary data was collected from 30 purposefully selected students (15 boys and 15 girls) in three conveniently selected secondary schools in Dadaab Refugee Camps. All the students involved in the study were currently residing in the refugee camps and were attending school regularly. A qualitative research design featuring in-depth interviews, key informant interviews and secondary sources was used to gather data over two weeks in April 2022. The findings reveal that terrorism had negatively affected students' behaviour, attendance and performance in the secondary schools used as a case study in this research project. The results indicated terrorism has affected school attendance because of terrorism-induced closures, fear of attacks, psychological trauma, and discouragement by parents. The study also revealed that student performance had declined considerably due to lack of motivation, anxiety and psychological trauma, interrupted learning, inadequate number of teachers, lack of adequate infrastructure and study materials, and absenteeism. Finally, the study established that students have become more undisciplined started to use drugs and alcohol and were easily irritable. The study suggests that county and national governments implement effective solutions to curb terrorism to ensure a safe and secure learning environment. It is suggested that teachers, students, and their parents should also take responsibility by being vigilant to keep any unwanted individuals out of the school environment. The study recommended carrying out a follow-up investigation in more refugee camps to compare the findings for consistency.