Mapping the Challenges Facing the Girl-Child in Secondary Schools in Southwestern Kenya

Abstract

Conducted in Southwestern Kenya, this narrative case study highlights the manifestation and causes of gender parity in secondary schools. Four girls, purposively selected were interviewed using open ended questionnaires. Data analysis was done using Kohler Reissman’s five levels of narrative analysis. Findings show that the girl child in Southwestern. Kenya faces hindrances in accessing secondary education at home, at school and within the community thus exacerbating gender parity in secondary schools. It is recommended that school leaders employ more female teachers to act as role models, ensuring that the school environment is safe and sensitize the communities on the importance of educating their children. Policy makers are challenged to develop and implement initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty and contextualized leadership preparation programs.