Date of Award

2024

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Education (MEd)

First Advisor

Dr. Tage Biswalo

Department

Institute for Educational Development, East Africa

Abstract

This research aimed to investigate the impact of human-wildlife conflict (HWC) on the provision of quality education in Kenya, with a particular focus on schools in Taita-Taveta County near Tsavo National Park. To achieve this objective, a mixed-methods approach was employed, utilizing questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions, observation, and document analysis. The quantitative data collected were analyzed using SPSS, while the qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. The findings of the study revealed several significant outcomes. First and foremost, HWC resulted in high levels of learner absenteeism, primarily due to parents' inability to pay school fees as a result of the destruction of their livelihoods caused by wildlife. Learners also experienced delays or missed classes altogether out of fear of encountering dangerous animals with learners with physical impairment affected most. Moreover, some learners had to take on additional responsibilities, such as protecting farms, which further affected their attendance. Further, the physical injuries and psychological trauma resulting from wildlife encounters posed significant barriers to effective learning. In addition, HWC had a disruptive impact on school infrastructure, damaging fences and water tanks, thereby hindering the teaching and learning process. Furthermore, wildlife invasions often disrupted exams and other school programs. The challenges and losses associated with HWC also had a negative impact on teachers' morale. These negative consequences of HWC were also reflected in the academic performance of the affected schools as evidenced by underperformance in national exams, particularly in schools located near protected areas. The loss of livelihoods further exacerbated the situation leading to the pursuit of alternative but often illegal activities that posed a threat to conservation efforts. Consequently, the conflict compromised the learners' right to education resulting in a deterioration of the overall quality of education provided. This calls for the government and all stakeholders to work together and come up with a permanent solution to the HWC problem.

First Page

1

Last Page

125

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