FACTORS AFFECTING ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN KENYA. A CASE STUDY OF SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN LAIKIPIA COUNTY.

Abstract

The general objective of this study was to examine the factors affecting student academic achievement in secondary schools within Laikipia County, Kenya. It specifically looked into the roles of socio-economic background, school infrastructure, parental involvement, and peer influence. The study adopted a descriptive survey design and collected data from 222 participants, including school principals, teachers, students, and parents. The analysis revealed that students from low-income families often struggle with accessing learning materials and maintaining school attendance. Additionally, schools with overcrowded classrooms and inadequate learning resources were linked to lower academic outcomes. Parental involvement was found to positively impact student success, especially when parents engage in school activities and support learning at home. The study also noted that peer influence can either motivate students academically or lead to negative behaviors such as absenteeism. The research concludes that student performance is shaped by a combination of home, school, and social environment factors. It recommends that stake holders work collaboratively to improve learning conditions, enhance parental engagement, and promote positive peer interaction. It also recommends targeted interventions such as financial aid, infrastructure improvements, enhanced parental engagement, and peer mentorship programs to promote academic success. These findings provide valuable insights for educators, policymakers, and stakeholders in the education sector.