Effect Of Socio-Economic Factors On School Attendance : A Case Study Of One School In Gweru District
- Author
- Dliwayo, S.
- Title
-
Effect Of Socio-Economic Factors On School
Attendance : A Case Study Of One School In Gweru District - Abstract
-
This study investigates the socio-economic factors affecting school attendance at Sogwala Primary School in Gweru District, Zimbabwe. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research combines quantitative data from structured questionnaires administered to 50 students and 30 parents, and school attendance records, with qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews with 10 teachers and 2 school administrators, as well as focus group discussions involving 8 groups of students and 6 groups of parents. The sequential explanatory design
employed in this study allows for a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between socio-economic variables and school attendance patterns.
The primary findings indicate that household income, parental education levels, and employment status are significant predictors of school attendance. Students from higher income households, where parents possess higher educational attainments and stable employment, exhibit better attendance rates. Conversely, students from lower-income households with less-educated and unemployed parents face greater absenteeism. This correlation is further elaborated through qualitative data, which highlight challenges such as the need for children to work to support family income and the inability to afford school fees and materials. Additionally, the study reveals that gender and age significantly influence attendance patterns. Girls tend to miss more school days due to household responsibilities and cultural expectations, while older students, particularly those in higher grades, are more likely to engage in income
generating activities to support their families. These findings align with existing literature,underscoring the compounded impact of socio-economic pressures on specific demographic groups.
The research also identifies effective strategies to mitigate these barriers to school attendance.
Conditional cash transfers and school feeding programs are highlighted as successful
interventions, providing financial and nutritional support to students. Community-based initiatives that engage local stakeholders in supporting education are also shown to create a more supportive environment for students, thereby improving attendance rates. In conclusion, this study emphasizes the critical role of socio-economic factors in shaping school attendance at Sogwala Primary School. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions that address financial, educational, and employment-related challenges faced by families. By implementing comprehensive support programs, it is possible to enhance school
attendance and, consequently, educational outcomes for students in socio-economically disadvantaged communities. The research contributes to the broader discourse on educational equity, offering actionable insights for policymakers, educators, and community leaders aiming to improve school attendance and educational attainment in similar contexts. - Date
- 2024
- Publisher
- BUSE
- Keywords
- socio-economic
- school attendance
- Supervisor
- Dr Dziva Daimond
- Media
-
DLIWAYO SIKHUPHUKILE
Part of Effect Of Socio-Economic Factors On School Attendance : A Case Study Of One School In Gweru District