Implementation of education policy in reducing school dropout in Zanzibar: A case of Tumbe ward Pemba

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 were conducted 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 program 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 assistance 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.