The Prevalence of Drug Abuse on School Completion Rates amongLearners in Public Junior Schools in Kimilili Sub-County, Kenya
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.68050/JAMS.2026.379Keywords:
Drug Abuse, Prevalence, School Completion rates, Junior School LearnersAbstract
Drugs and substance abuse have been a growing socio-economic challenge that has affected many societies across the globe. The purpose of the study was to determine the prevalence of drug abuse among learners in public junior schools in Kimilili sub-county. The study was carried out in Kimilili sub-county, which had three educational zones: Kimilili West Zone, Kimilili East Zone and Kimilili Central Zone. The study was guided by two theories: Natural theory and primary socialization theory. The study adopted a correlational research design, employing Karl Pearson’s correlation approach to examine the relationship between drug abuse and school completion rates. The target population included one TSC wellness officer at the wellness center (dealing with HIV/AIDS, drug abuse, and alcohol addiction), 58 head teachers in the three zones of Kimilili Sub-County, 58 teachers in charge of guidance and counselling, and 11600 learners. Stratified random sampling was used to select schools across the zones, while purposive sampling targeted 1 TSC wellness officer. The study focused on learners in grades seven to nine, aged between twelve and fourteen years, with the consent of their parents. Data were collected through survey questionnaires, observational checklists, and archival records. Both primary and secondary data were utilized. Analysis was conducted using the chi-square method, with results presented in tables showing frequencies and percentages. The findings formed the basis for drawing conclusions, developing policy recommendations, and informing interventions aimed at enhancing learner retention and academic achievement.
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