Survey shows class 6 pupils can’t handle class 4 work

A report on pupil performance indicates that majority of pupils from classes five and six cannot undertake class four work in 10 counties.

The study conducted by Twaweza East Africa in partnership with Uwezo Kenya also indicated that “overall competency levels in English and Mathematics among pupils of class five and six were low, with the exception of addition and subtraction.”

It also revealed that a majority of pupils assessed had mastered class four level addition (83%) and subtraction 68%) but competency rates were much lower for division at 28% and writing 13%. However, results from public schools revealed several challenges among them lack of proper learning materials and lack of motivation from parents or guardians.

This is despite the fact the public schools have professionally trained and experienced teachers as compared to staff from private schools who majority of the are basically Form Four leavers who lacked experience and competence.

The study, which was conducted between July 2016 and July 2017, assessed writing, listening and spelling as well as children’s ability to perform mathematical problems.

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The study was conducted in Laikipia, Garissa, Mandera, Kirinyaga, Kiambu, Embu, Nakuru, Nairobi, Kisii and Baringo counties.

According to Twaweza EA Programmes Assistant Francis Njuguna, the report revealed that majority of pupils assed had mastered class four level addition (83%) and subtraction 68%) but competency rates were much lower for division (28%) and writing (13%).

Thomas Gicheru, who is in charge of Quality Assurance and Standards in Laikipia West, said it was informative since it focused on the basic learning skills of school going children saying this has shown the where the region is in terms of education.