Perception on Inter-Ethnic Conflict Relative to Pupils Attendance in Schools in Marsabit District

ABSTRACT The state of life and education in the inter —ethnic clash prone area in relation to provision of education in Marsabit district is so pathetic and deplorable, that some measures should be put in place for these children to grow, develop and learn like any other children where this culture of ethnicity is non existent. The researcher was guided by the following specific objectives: To determine the perception on inter-ethnic conflict by the peace committee in regard to causes, solutions and effects on pupils and to find out the perception on inter-ethnic conflict from the parents, elders and headteachers as to factors and ways of curbing conflicts. This thesis attempts to find out the underlying factors and process that lead to poor pupils school attendance due to inter-ethnic conflicts. The research study utilized a descriptive research and purposive sampling method the data collected was analyzed through use of tables, graphs and pie charts so as to give the picture of situation in the district. The researcher was able to make the following findings: Teachers transfers from insecurity zone affects normal school routine, learning was paralyzed in most schools as parents, teachers and pupils directed their attention to warfare, competition for scarce resources contributes to inter-ethnic conflict, loss of human life, property and livestock. Presence of illicit fire arms in the area coupled with ethnicity fueled inter-ethnic conflict, hence poor pupils’ school attendance. From the findings the researcher was able to make recommendations which can help to get solutions to the problems cited above. Creation of comprehensive policy frame work for conflict management and addressing Social —Economic challenges, promoting community based peace initiative and encouraging civil education and public awareness training about negative effect of gun culture as well as misuse of guns. Confiscation of illegal fire arms was perceived to be a solution to inter-ethnic conflict. The researcher suggested the following suggestions for further research; Role of government security agents in inter-ethnic conflict and provision of quality education to enhance pupils’ school attendance; community based/home grown strategies to enhance pupil’s attendance in conflict prone areas.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

DECLARATION (A)

DECLARATION (B) ii

APPROVAL SHEET iii

DEDICATION iv

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT v

ABSTRACT vi

One THE PROBLEM AND ITS SCOPE 1

Background of the Study 1

Statement of the Problem. 4

Purpose of Study 5

Research Objectives 5

Research Questions 6

Scope of the Study 6

Significance of the Study 6

Operational Definitions of Key Terms 7

Two REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE 8

Introduction 8

Related literature 8

Impact of Clashes on Pupils 8

Causes for Aggravated Security Problems in Marsabit

District. 12

Theoretical Framework 14

vii

Three METHODOLOGY 17

Research Design 17

Research Population. 17

Sample Size 18

Sampling Procedure 18

Research Instruments 18

Validity and Reliability of the Instruments 20

Data Gathering Procedure 20

Data Analysis 20

Ethical Consideration 21

Limitations of the Study 21

Four PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA 23

Five FINDINGS, CONCLUSSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS. 31

Findings 31

Conclussion 34

Recommendations 34

Suggestions for further research 36

REFERENCES 37

APPENDICES 40

APPENDIX I: Transmittal Letter 40

APPENDIX II: Budget 41

APPENDIX III: Time Schedule 43