Influence of Fee-Free Education on Parental and Community Participation in Primary School Activities in Songea Municipality, Tanzania.

Uvambe, Zuena Joseph (2021) Influence of Fee-Free Education on Parental and Community Participation in Primary School Activities in Songea Municipality, Tanzania. Masters thesis, The Open University of Tanzania.

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Abstract

This study aimed at exploring the influence of fee-free education on parental and community participation in primary school activities. The study was guided by two specific objectives namely: to determine the influence of fee-free education in school-related activities and to explore the views of parents regarding their participation in school activities in the context of fee-free education. It was conducted in three public primary schools in Songea Municipality. The study was a qualitative and quantitative approach in some areas. It employed a survey study design. A total sample size of 31 participants was employed. Data collection methods were interviews, FGDs, and documentary reviews. Data gathered were analysed using the content analysis approach with the aid of 1994 Miles and Huber man’s framework for qualitative data analysis. The study found that FFEP resulted in a significant reduction in parental participation in school activities. Consequently, parents started attending poorly school meetings and had a low spirit in volunteering for school development projects. It was also found that parents had mixed feelings regarding their participation in primary school activities in the context of FFEP. The study suggested that Free education should actually be free; otherwise, the government should specify what parents should contribute. It was recommended that the Ministry of Education Science and Technology need to emphasize public awareness about free education in order to reduce misunderstanding within the community. Finally, further studies can be done to establish an engaging model that motivates and attracts parents’ participation in school issues. Keywords: Fee-Free Education, Parental, Community Primary School.

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