Influence of School Resources on Pupils’ Enrollment in Public Primary Schools in Imenti North Subcounty, Kenya

Abstract

The allocation of resources within educational institutions has a significant impact on both academic achievement and student enrollment rates. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of the school resources on the enrollment of students in public primary schools within the Imenti North Sub-County of Kenya. The study was conducted with the aim of examining the impact of various factors on pupils' enrolment in public primary schools in Imenti North Sub-County. Specifically, the study aimed to investigate the influence of teaching/learning resources on pupils' enrolment, determine the impact of physical facilities on pupils' enrolment, explore the relationship between distance to school and pupils' enrolment, and examine the influence of discipline cases on pupils' enrolment. The theoretical framework was informed by Chinapah's (1984) theoretical model of learning. The model places significant emphasis on the principle of equal rights to education, regardless of factors such as age, gender, ethnicity, socio-economic background, and regional origins. It also highlights the importance of ensuring equal opportunities for everyone to access various types and degrees of education. The cross-sectional survey methodology was employed in this study because of its ability to draw inferences regarding potential relationships or to collect initial data in support of future research endeavors. The sample consisted of 200 head teachers and 1500 kids in the eighth grade. A sample size of 40 Head teachers and 300 class eight kids was determined using a 20 percent sampling technique. The researchers employed a simple random sampling technique to choose a sample of class eight kids, while a census sampling method was utilized for the remaining population. Data collection was conducted through the utilization of questionnaires, which were administered to both supervising Head teachers and Class eight children. Following the completion of data cleaning procedures, the dataset was subsequently encoded and inputted into a computer system for the purpose of analysis, utilizing the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. The quantitative data underwent analysis through the application of descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviation. The study revealed that the amount of pupils' enrollment was significantly influenced by the adequacy of teaching and learning materials. The enrollment of pupils in elementary schools is impacted by the adequacy of physical facilities that are available. This is because pupils are motivated to attend school due to the presence of suitable physical facilities. Additionally, it was shown that the proximity to the school had an impact on the enrollment of students. The enrollment of students in primary schools in Imenti Sub-County was influenced by cases of disciplinary issues. Based on the findings of the study, the following recommendations are proposed: The Ministry of Education should prioritize the provision of comprehensive teaching and learning resources across all subjects in schools, with the aim of increasing school enrollment rates. It is imperative for head teachers to oversee the diligent adherence and implementation of school rules, with strict consequences for any individuals found in violation of those norms. In order to enhance school enrollment rates, it is advisable for the Ministry of Education, in collaboration with other education stakeholders, to construct additional educational institutions in regions where students are required to traverse considerable distances on foot to access schooling facilities. It is recommended that the Government of Kenya increase its allocation of funds in order to ensure the sufficient availability of teaching and learning resources.