Utilization of National Government Constituency Development Fund and Its Influence on Transition to Secondary Education in Kirinyaga County, Kenya

Abstract

This study sought to establish how utilization of the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NGCDF) enhances transition into secondary education in Kirinyaga County, Kenya. The research used a descriptive research design. The study targeted 19 public secondary schools which had benefitted from NGCDF, 19 principals, 247 teachers and 12 CDF officials in the County. The study adopted a sample size of 12 schools, which were identified through simple random sampling. The study also adopted a sample size of 12 principals. Teachers were identified through random sampling while community leaders were identified through census survey. Piloting was conducted in 4 schools in the county. Data was collected using questionnaires for teachers, while an interview guide was used for the principals and CDF officials. Quantitative data analysis was done using descriptive statistics i.e. mean and standard deviation, frequencies and percentages. Qualitative data was thematically analysed using content analysis and presented using narration and verbatim quotes as appropriate. The findings revealed that NGCDF utilization on teaching and learning resources, physical facilities and school feeding programs and the community's perception on NGCDF influenced transition. The community's perception on the NGCDF determined the number of applicants and not all learners applied for the fund. The findings may help the NGCDF managers in the County to improve the community's perception of the fund and thereby increase allocation and enhance transition to secondary schools.