A multi-agency initiative has been launched in Kaloleni Sub-County, Kilifi County to raise awareness and curb the growing number of school dropouts among grade six pupils.
The campaign, spearheaded by the Kaloleni Sub-County Education office, brings together various Government departments, including the security sector and other education stakeholders, to address the worrying trend.
Speaking during the launch, Kaloleni Sub-County Director of Education, Josephine Lomata, emphasised the need for joint efforts to bring the affected children back to school.
According to the director, the collaborative intervention was officially launched following reports that a significant number of grade six pupils in the area, estimated at 10%, have abandoned their studies to engage in child labour, despite their young age.
She noted that although the government has invested heavily in the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) to ensure continuous learning and development, the dropout rate at that crucial stage of education threatens to derail those efforts.
“This campaign is not just about returning children to school; it is about securing their future. we are working closely with local administrators, teachers and education officers to identify and follow up with children who have dropped out and to sensitize the community on the importance of education, especially for young learners.” said Lomata.
Kaloleni Deputy County Commissioner Kyalo Kaloki echoed her sentiments, urging parents to take their responsibilities seriously, calling on them to prioritize their children’s education over short-term economic gains since the long-term benefits of education far outweigh the income children might take home through informal work.
“I want to appeal to parents and guardians: let’s be accountable; let’s not allow our children to fall into cycles of poverty due to lack of Education, the government is ready to support, but the first step begins at home.” Kaloki said.
Onesmus Matheka, Chairperson Kenya Secondary School Heads Association (KESSHA) Kaloleni, who acknowledged the need for sustained community engagement to tackle the dropout issue.
He stressed that schools are ready to receive and support returning pupils and urge parents to cooperate with school heads and education officers.
Matheka added that early marriages and pregnancies lead to high rates of school dropouts within Kaloleni, pointing out the need for sustained community engagement to tackle the dropout issue. Schools are ready to receive and support returning pupils.
“Early marriages and pregnancies also lead to the dropout of young girls, while the young boys join bodaboda businesses. Another challenge is that several students who join form one drop out before completing their secondary school course.” Said Matheka.
The awareness campaign includes door-to-door visits, community barazas (public meetings), radio messaging, and engagement with faith-based organisations to reach families and address the social and economic factors contributing to early dropouts.
The team plans to monitor progress closely and also provide periodic updates to ensure accountability and transparency in the campaign’s implementation.
The main agenda of the program is to bring a renewed sense of hope to the Kaloleni education community that, through unity and persistent efforts, more children will be encouraged to remain in school and pursue their dreams.
By Stephen Mrira and Benver Joyner
