Perspectives of stakeholders on the effects of HIV and aids on primary school pupils’ dropout, Kenya: A case study of Kisumu municipality

Kisumu Municipality is one of the areas that has high Human Immuno Deficiency Virus and Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome prevalence rate of 15% compared to a national prevalence rate of 7.3%. The HIV and AIDS scourge has resulted into many orphans who are vulnerable to many forms of exploitation such as a sexual exploitation and child labor. These forms of exploitation are bound to affect participation of children in education. The purpose of this study was therefore to establish perspectives of stakeholders on the effects of HIV and AIDS on primary school pupil dropout in Kisumu Municipality, Kenya. The study was guided by a conceptual framework that illustrates how HIV and AIDS could affect primary school pupil drop out. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The study population consisted of one Municipal Education Officer, one Quality and Assurance Standards Officer, 17933 standard 7 and 8 pupils, 117 head teachers and 234 classes 7 and 8 class teachers. Questionnaires, interview schedules and focus group discussion guide were used to collect data. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics in form of frequency counts, means and percentages. Qualitative data was coded and analyzed in emergent themes and sub themes. The study findings revealed that HIV and AIDS have had an impact on the school going children. It has exposed children who are orphaned to challenges due to lack of providers and care takers. The study found out that there are quite a number of strategies that the schools and the government are using to reduce drop out in the primary schools within the municipality. The study also revealed that there are quite a number of challenges in the process of mitigating primary drop out. To improve on the quality of education and learning in primary schools in Kisumu Municipality this study recommended that the government should put in place measures to reduce the rapid increase of orphans due to HIV and AIDS effects, increase the amount of funds set aside for HIV and AIDS affected or infected pupils, ensure quality health services for all, eradicate graft in conveying funds for personal effects for orphans due HIV and AIDS ,and educate the society on the effects of HIV and AIDS. The findings of this research are useful to policy makers, Non Governmental Organizations, well wishers, head teachers, teachers and all stakeholders in eradicating school dropout in educational institutions.