Assessment of the constituency development fund in enhancing KCPE performance of public primary schools in Kenya: a case of Mwala Constituency

Abstract

Public primary schools are faced with many challenges related to the provision of adequate and appropriate learning facilities and poor financial management skills which have had a negative effect on KCPE performance. This study therefore investigated the efficiency of the CDF in enhancing KCPE performance in public primary schools in Mwala Constituency. Data were collected using questionnaires and an observation schedule. Responses were received from 119 respondents (21 head teachers and 98 teachers). Statistical analysis was used to analyse closed- ended items and descriptive statistics used to analyse open-ended items using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS). The findings were presented in frequency percentage tables, histograms and pie-charts. The study also revealed that as much as most schools have a number of physical facilities as well as teaching and learning resources, the facilities are largely inadequate. Study findings also show that most public primary schools in Mwala Constituency are experiencing a shortage of teachers and non-teaching staff. It was however revealed that CDF has not been adequately channelled towards this situation hence impacting negatively on KCPE performance. The study further established that challenges facing schools in regard to CDF funds range from the process of application for the funds by schools which is prone to manipulation, poor implementation of CDF projects in schools and lack of minimal support from stakeholders. It was concluded that there is a general feeling among head teachers that CDF has had a positive impact on KCPE performance to some extent. It was however of concern that the CDF funds have not bee adequately utilised in areas that are crucial towards enhancing KCPE performance. More emphasis is being placed on constructing more classrooms and forgetting provision of teaching and learning resources and more teachers. Recommendations have therefore been made to streamline the CDF management in schools so as to boost KCPE performance.