Chalan Foundation released a new baseline survey highlighting critical barriers affecting learners across Kenya. The survey, conducted in 51 public day secondary schools across 10 counties and involving 612 learners and over 200 parents and guardians, provides fresh insights into the challenges facing education today.

Findings show that while learners are motivated, consistent school attendance remains a major challenge, with nearly 48% of students unable to attend full school weeks due to factors like school fees and illness. Other barriers identified include poverty, limited learning resources, psychosocial stress, and gaps in digital access.

Speaking at the report dissemination, our Founder, Margaret Koech, emphasized that the survey findings will guide the Foundation’s education and life skills development program, which is designed to help vulnerable learners overcome these barriers and succeed in school and beyond.

The event also featured Ms. Mendi Njonjo, CEO of KCB Foundation, and Mr. Kello Harsama, Principal Secretary in the State Department for Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs) and Regional Development, who both highlighted the importance of partnerships and evidence-based interventions to strengthen learning outcomes, particularly in ASAL regions.

This baseline study reaffirms Chalan Foundation’s commitment to ensuring every learner has the opportunity to thrive and will guide Chalan Foundation’s programming over the coming years and strengthen partnerships with schools, communities and sector actors working to improve education outcomes for vulnerable learners.

CALL TO ACTION SECTION

Access the report and learn more about our work.

(Download the Baseline Report)