Exploring the Influence of Students’ Welfare on the Efficacy of 100 Per Cent Transition in Secondary Schools in Kisii County, Kenya.

Abstract

Despite the Kenyan government's initiative to implement a 100 per cent transition policy from primary to secondary education, concerns persist regarding the role of students' welfare in sustaining this transition effectively. Many secondary schools face challenges related to inadequate physical facilities, lack of support for learners with disabilities, and neglect of student health, which may compromise the intended outcomes of the transition policy. The purpose of this study was to explore the influence of students’ welfare on the efficacy of 100 per cent transition in secondary schools in Kisii County. Both descriptive survey and mixed methods research designs were employed to capture quantitative and qualitative data comprehensively. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select a sample of 380 students, 357 teachers, and 27 principals from a population of 33,593 students, 4,986 teachers, and 186 principals. Data were collected using questionnaires and interviews. The validity of research instruments was ensured through expert review by research supervisors, while the reliability yielded a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.83. Quantitative data were analysed using ANOVA and p-values to test hypotheses, while thematic analysis was used for the qualitative interview data. Findings revealed that public secondary schools lacked critical infrastructure, such as ramps and Braille machines, and had poorly maintained facilities. ANOVA results (F(1,206)=48.860, p=.716) indicated a statistically insignificant influence of welfare on transition efficacy. Interviews exposed widespread teacher negligence regarding student health issues. The study recommends substantial investment in improving physical facilities and welfare programs to enhance the success of the 100 per cent transition policy.