education

Education | Brief

Despite official policies for free primary education in Kenya, hidden costs remain significant barriers.

Photo by Kimberly Farmer / Unsplash

In the sprawling Korogocho slum of Nairobi, Kenya, the situation for children—especially from the poorest families—is one of harsh challenge and uncertainty. With over 150,000 residents cramped into just 1.5 square kilometres, Korogocho is one of Nairobi's most densely populated informal settlements, where poverty, inadequate infrastructure, and social issues profoundly affect access to education.

Struggling to Afford Schooling

For many families in Korogocho, the dream of sending their children to school is hindered by the inability to afford even basic schooling costs. Despite official policies for free primary education in Kenya, hidden costs such as school fees for uniforms, books, and other materials remain significant barriers. Many parents cannot muster the money for school uniforms or pay the minimal fees required, forcing children to either miss school frequently or drop out altogether. This financial strain disproportionately affects the poorest families, making education a distant goal for their children.

Education Quality and Access

Even for those children who manage to get into school, the quality of education is compromised by overcrowded classrooms, a shortage of qualified teachers, and a lack of learning materials. Schools in Korogocho often have to contend with poor infrastructure, including inadequate sanitation facilities. It is reported that an average of 100-500 children share just one latrine in some schools, leading to poor hygiene conditions and health risks. This situation particularly impacts adolescent girls, who often miss school during menstruation due to lack of privacy, contributing to higher dropout rates among females.

Statistical Insights

Only about 52% of youth in Korogocho who sit for Kenya’s national primary school exams achieve the marks needed to advance to public secondary schools. This contrasts sharply with around 79% of youth in adjacent, more formal areas. When children fail to qualify for public schools, many are compelled to attend costly private or community schools that may lack quality resources, putting further economic pressure on families already struggling with extreme poverty.

The difficulties extend beyond finances. Families live in overcrowded homes with poor sanitation, exposure to crime, gang violence, and substance abuse, all of which disrupt a child's ability to attend and focus on school. Malnutrition is also prevalent, with a significant number of children experiencing chronic or acute undernourishment, negatively impacting their ability to learn and thrive. The lack of stable caregiving and parental support due to economic hardships also plays a critical role in limiting educational opportunities.

Hope and Initiatives

Despite these daunting challenges, community initiatives and external support from organisations are making a difference by improving school facilities, providing meals, and supporting vulnerable children. Grassroots programmes that combine education with activities such as sports help keep children engaged and away from negative influences. However, systemic improvements in funding and infrastructure are urgently needed to ensure equitable access to quality education for all children in Korogocho.

This snapshot of Korogocho’s educational challenges shows a stark reality faced by many urban slum children in Nairobi. Without concerted efforts to ease financial barriers and improve learning environments, thousands of children will remain trapped in a cycle of poverty and missed potential.