Role of Community in the Management of Free Primary Education in Kenya

Abstract

Free Primary Education (FPE) was introduced in all public schools in the Kenya in 2003 as a fulfillment of the campaign pledge by the NARC political party that won the 2002 General Elections. The study established that FPE was hastily implemented hence there was no time to prepare the school management as well as sensitize stakeholders on the requirements and expectations of FPE. Most of the head teachers have difficulties in planning and managing the schools funds among other managerial challenges. This study examined role of parents in the management of free primary schools in Keiyo District, Kenya. This was a descriptive survey study where questionnaires, interview schedule and an observation were used to collect data from the head teachers, teachers and Education Officers. Purposive sampling technique was used to select the education officers and the head teachers while random sampling technique was used to select the zones, teachers and the primary schools that participated in the study. A total of 260 respondents participated in the study. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics; percentages and frequencies. The findings showed that the parents did not assist the school management in the implementation of and the public should be sensitized further to support the government efforts in the provision of FPE if this noble initiative is to succeed.