Maurice A. Ndolo, Enose M.W. Simatwa and T.M.O. Ayodo
The Government of Kenya is committed to the provision of quality education. This is in accordance with the international conventions on human rights, Education for All and Vision 2030. However, the implementation of Free Primary Education and Free Secondary Education weighs heavily on the exchequer. Homa Bay District is characterized by high poverty level of 77. 5%, low income averaging between Kshs. 1000.00 and Kshs. 2000.00 a month and high Human Immune Virus and Acquired Immunity Deficiency Syndrome education costs besides the basic human needs. In view of this the government advised institutions to establish new sources of finance aimed at reducing financial burden currently weighing down on the government. It was envisaged that exploring additional funds from other sources like Income Generating Activities could possibly increase access. The study sought to assess the effects of school based income generating activities on access and financing of secondary education between the years 2000-2004. It employed cross sectional survey design. A study sample of one District Education Officer, 33 head teachers and 297 students was used. Questionnaires were used as data collection tools. In order to ensure validity and reliability, 4 (10%) of schools outside the study sample were used in a pilot study. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse Income Generating Activities effects on access and financing of education in Homa Bay District. Study findings revealed that the dominant Income Generating Activities carried out were: Crop farming 41.4%, livestock keeping 31.8% and brick making 12.3%. Further findings revealed that profits from Income Generating Activities lowered the overhead cost of education and subsequently increased access. Income Generating Activities reportedly made invaluable contribution towards secondary education. Money generated was used to purchase learning materials and provide physical facilities. Ministry of Education should therefore formulate policies which encourage schools to engage in varied Income Generating Activities to reduce dependence government on financing secondary education.
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