Learning disabilities among Nairobi school children

Four hundred and forty-one school children studying in local primary schools were referred during 1980-1981 to the Psychological Assessment Clinic in Nairobi (Kenya) for poor academic performance. The most frequent cause for the learning difficulties of these children was mental retardation. In one third, emotional disorders were responsible for their learning difficulties. Currently, even mentally retarded children are admitted into the existing educational system and are unable to cope. Recommendations for the future are made.