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ABSTRACT
The study sought to examine the implementation of the existing Zanzibar education
policy in reducing school dropout at Tumbe Ward of Micheweni District Pemba in
Zanzibar. Specifically, the study examined the status of dropout, strategies used in
reducing dropout, and the socio-economic effects; such as educational, economic
and social effects. The study further assessed the existing Zanzibar education policy
in reducing dropout rate. It was a comparative study; it was set to compare the rate
of dropout between primary and secondary levels. Interviews was used to 06 key
informants, while questionnaires were used for other 89 respondents through which
both qualitative and quantitative data were collected and analysed in this study.
The study revealed the causes of dropout as poverty, early marriages and teenage
pregnancies, illiterates of parents, parents‟ separation and in adequate of school
teachers. The study further revealed that, females‟ dropout in Primary level was
higher compared to males‟ dropout rates and males‟ dropout rate at secondary level
was higher compared to that of females. Generally, it emerged from the study that,
the dropout rate in secondary level was higher than primary level. Apart from the
provision of alternative education, the study established other strategies used in
reducing dropout rates; these include Community Police and parents meetings with
school committee members that were helpful in reducing dropout.
The results of the study further showed that there were socio-economic effects
caused by dropouts in Tumbe Ward. The alternative education programme was
helpful in reducing dropout, while the law that allowed the pregnant girls to
returning back to school after delivery was not effectively implemented in the area.
Lastly, the study recommends measures to address dropout rate; such as punishment
to parents who allow their children to dropout; recruitment of adequate and qualified
teachers; provision of assisstance to poor students; increased awareness to the
parents on the need for school students‟ retention; and the advocacy for alternative
education to be diversified specifically in rural areas. |
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