Factors Behind High Number of KCSE Grade Es in Coast Schools
The educational landscape in Coast schools has been marred by a concerning trend – a disproportionately high number of KCSE Grade Es. As educational institutions strive to shape the future of young minds, the region grapples with a myriad of complex challenges that impede academic success.
This investigation delves into the underlying factors contributing to the prevalence of Grade Es in KCSE examinations, shedding light on issues such as absenteeism, family dynamics, limited access to resources, socioeconomic disparities, teacher training, and the crucial role of community engagement.
ALSO REA: How the New KCSE Grading System May Diminish Kiswahili’s Significance: Kiswahili Under Threat
By unraveling these challenges, we aim to comprehend the intricate web of obstacles hindering educational progress and advocate for holistic solutions that will uplift the academic standing of Coast schools.
Ali Mohammed, an alumnus of Serani Secondary School in Mombasa County, initially worried about the school’s poor KCSE performance. Upon his return as a teacher, he found low student numbers and attendance, contributing to the prevalence of grade Es.
Low Enrollment and Attendance / Absenteeism
Serani Secondary School had fewer than 250 students, with only 71 registered as KCSE candidates, contrasting sharply with Mr. Mohammed’s previous school, Kwa Bulo Secondary School, which had 650 students. Class attendance was notably poor.
Approximately 30 registered candidates were absent from school, only resurfacing during exams. Mr. Mohammed noted that these consistently absent students often received grade Es, attributing their poor performance to a lack of prioritization of education.
ALSO READ: KNEC Sets Record Straight on Releasing KCSE Grades of Student Who Died Before Exams
Disciplinary Measures
Mr. Mohammed and colleagues implemented measures to enhance discipline among students, with a renewed focus on improving the overall standards of the school.
At Bomu Secondary School, a similar trend emerged as 31 KCSE candidates disappeared, returning only during exam rehearsals.
Peer pressure and Challenges in Family Dynamics:
Principal Wilfred Motondi discovered that some students faced challenges due to peer pressure, single-parent families, and responsibilities of caring for siblings.
Lack of Interest in Education
The school initiated counseling sessions to address these challenges, acknowledging the impact of family dynamics on students’ education.
Coast Regional Education Director Lucas Kangongo encountered students sleeping after writing their names during inspections, revealing a lack of commitment to education.
ALSO READ: 2023 KCSE Results: 48,174 Candidates Score E.
Some students admitted their sole interest was obtaining certificates, highlighting a broader issue of disengagement from the educational process.
Shariff Nassir Girls Secondary School faced challenges with students focusing on making money through social media, emphasizing the need for parental involvement in monitoring their children’s activities.
Some students prioritized making money through social media over academic pursuits.
Makupa Boys Secondary School and Tononoka Boys Secondary School reported high numbers of grade Es, indicating a pervasive trend across the region.
Variety of Post-School Activities:
Students engaged in activities such as working abroad, becoming boda boda riders, or succumbing to drug addiction and criminal activities.
Mwanahamisi Omar, Vice Chair of the Kenya Secondary Schools Headteachers Association, attributed the poor performance to truancy.
ALSO READ: Kilifi Top School that Outshined National Schools Laments ‘Poor’ Results in KCSE
Truancy Impacting Grades
Ms. Omar emphasized that a high level of truancy resulted in poor academic performance.
In conclusion, the challenges faced by Coast schools in achieving better KCSE results encompass issues of absenteeism, family dynamics, and the need for increased parental involvement. Addressing these factors is crucial for enhancing educational outcomes in the region.
Limited Access to Educational Resources:
Another factor affecting the performance of Coast schools in KCSE exams is the limited access to educational resources. Some schools may face challenges in providing students with adequate learning materials, including textbooks, reference materials, and updated technology.
This limitation hinders the students’ ability to grasp essential concepts and stay competitive in national examinations. Investing in educational resources is crucial for creating an environment conducive to effective learning.
ALSO READ: 2019 Best KCPE Achievers Shine Again in 2023 KCSE: How They Performed
Socioeconomic Factors:
The socioeconomic status of students and their families also plays a role in the academic challenges faced by Coast schools. Many students come from backgrounds with limited financial resources, impacting their access to additional tutoring, educational support, and a conducive learning environment.
Addressing socioeconomic disparities is vital for creating equal opportunities for all students, enabling them to perform better academically. Enhancing the educational outcomes in Coast schools requires active involvement from the community and various stakeholders. There is a need for collaborative efforts between schools, parents, local authorities, and community leaders.
Establishing platforms for open communication and fostering a sense of shared responsibility can lead to improved support structures for students. Community engagement initiatives can include mentorship programs, workshops, and awareness campaigns to highlight the importance of education in shaping the future of the region.
ALSO READ: 23 Most Marketable Courses In Kenya, 2024
In summary, addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by Coast schools involves tackling issues of truancy, improving access to educational resources, addressing socioeconomic disparities, enhancing teacher training, and fostering community engagement. A comprehensive approach that addresses these factors is essential for creating a conducive learning environment and elevating educational outcomes in the region.
Factors Behind High Number of KCSE Grade Es in Coast Schools
