Impact of Government Security on Pastoralist Pupils’ Participation in Regular and Mobile Primary Schools in Turkana County, Kenya

Abstract

One of the major hindrances to education access in arid and semi-arid lands is lack of security. In recognition of this challenges, the Kenya government has tried to provide interventions through mobile schools and security services in places like Turkana County. Therefore, the research explored the effectiveness of security interventions on pastoralists’ children's participation in regular and mobile primary schooling in Turkana County, Kenya. The research used both descriptive survey and mixed methods. It relied on a sample of 75 school heads, 225 instructors, 375 learners, 85 parents, 3 education officers (1 from every sub-county), 1 County Director of Education and 1 County Commissioner. For data collation, the research used questionnaires, interview schedules and focus groups. Quantitative data was coded and entered into the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) program. To test for effectiveness of security intervention, regression (inferential statistics) was calculated. The analysed data was presented using tables. Qualitative data from interviews and focused groups was analysed and presented thematically. Hypotheses were analysed using regression analysis. Single and multiple regression were calculated to gauge the relative effect of the security interventions on pupils' participation in schooling. The results of the inquiry showed that insecurity around schools in Turkana County was rampant and some schools had suffered attacks. Incidences of insecurity had led to many pupils not attending school thus making many pastoralists pupils not participate in school in the County. Based on these findings, it is evident that insecurity also contributes to constant displacement which makes it difficult for children to pursue educational opportunities. Therefore, it was recommended that all schools should be provided with security officers, including the KPR comprised of the locals who understand the terrain and the people in the security.