Conflict-Driven Displacement, Education Marginalization in Africa: A Case Study of Refugees in Dadaab, Kenya

As the government mandates improving students' academic achievements and qualifications across the country, the achievement gap between the local students and refugees continues to persist. Therefore, this study was primarily designed to examine the influence of conflict-driven displacement of people on the marginalization of Africans from education, focusing on African refugees in Dadaab Camp. Three specific objectives were developed to meet the intended goal of the study including; 1) To examine the impact of conflict-driven displacement on the refugee girl-child, 2) To examine the influence of conflict-driven displacement on the high rate of school drop-out among refugee children, and, 3) To examine the overall influence of conflict-driven displacement on education among refugee children in Africa with Daadab Refugee camp as the case study. A consistent learning schedule, a secure and well-equipped learning environment, and mental well-being are equated with high academic achievements in education. However, as indicated in the literature section, psychological trauma and distress resulting from the war made it impossible for conflict-displaced refugees to concentrate in school hence their poor academic achievements. Following a qualitative research approach, the study revealed many factors contributing to the wide education gap between local and refugee students. Semi-structured interviews and structured observations were the data collection methodology employed to collect the data necessary to get the findings for the study. A narrative content approach and thematic analysis were also employed to address the research questions and findings. The factors identified by the study spanned psychological trauma, disruption of education schedules, poverty and inadequate resources, cultural practices, and misplacement. The persistency of these factors made it apparent that the answer to the above education gap lies in policies and improving school practices.