Influence of Learner-Related Factors on 100% Transition from Primary to Secondary Schools in Chesumei Sub-County in Nandi County, Kenya

Abstract

The government of Kenya is committed to raising the transition rates of learners from primary to secondary schools. Transition rate is seen as a measure of internal efficiency of education system. The aim of carrying out the current study was to investigate the influence of learner-related factors towards the achievement of 100% transition to secondary schools in Chesumei sub-county in Nandi County and then use the findings to suggest ways of raising transition rates. The objectives that guided the study were stated as: to find out the influence of learner-related factors on 100% transition from primary to secondary schools. While conducting the study, a descriptive survey was used; therefore, questionnaires and interview schedules were used in data collection. The study was guided by the life course theory, which was proposed by Elder (2000). The theory believes that there is a strong link between children's environments and their economic success. The study targeted 5125 class eight learners, 55 headteachers, 55 class teachers, learners who have missed the transition to secondary schools since 2018, and the sub-county Director of Education. Purposive sampling was used to select learners who did not transition to secondary schools. 20% of learners in class Eight were selected to participate in the study, as suggested by Mugenda (2003). The total number of respondents was 1136.
 The questionnaires used for teachers and learners had coefficients of 0.749 and 0.678, respectively. Raw data collected was analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively using SPSS package and then presented in tables and charts. The findings of the study were that family background greatly influences transition rates of learners in the sub-county.
 For the said findings, therefore, there is a need for the government to put adequate measures in place to address the challenges.