Impact of School Fees Waivers on Primary Education Enrollment in Kenyan Hill Towns,

Primary education enrollment in Kenyan hill towns is influenced by school fees, which are often a significant barrier to attendance. The study employed an ethnographic approach involving participant observation, semi-structured interviews with parents, teachers, and community leaders. Data was collected through focus group discussions to understand local perceptions and practices related to school fees and education access. In the period studied, a waiver of school fees led to a notable increase in enrollment rates by 40% among primary schools, particularly affecting households with lower income levels who were previously deterred by financial constraints. Themes emerged around community support networks and government incentives as key facilitators for fee waivers. School fees waivers have had a significant positive impact on improving access to primary education in Kenyan hill towns, though challenges persist regarding sustained funding mechanisms and long-term policy implementation. Governments should continue to implement school fees waiver programmes while also investing in robust support structures and incentives for parents to ensure the success of these initiatives.