More than 80% of PISA participants in Kenya did not reach the minimum level
In Kenya, more than 80% of students aged 15–16 who took part in the international PISA assessment did not reach the minimum competency level. The testing covered science, mathematics and computational problem-solving, Nation Kenya reports.
Shortage of teachers and materials
Kenya joined the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) for the first time last year. The study assesses students' outcomes and the conditions in which they learn to identify factors that may hinder learning.
According to the editorial, 53% of testing participants attended schools whose principals reported that teaching was hampered by a shortage of teachers. The problem has long affected public schools as well as junior schools, despite the recent mass recruitment of teachers.
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The article also refers to shortages of textbooks, IT equipment, and materials for libraries and laboratories. According to the authors, this hinders teaching and learning.
Bullying and parental involvement
Among the factors affecting children's learning, the international report named bullying, absenteeism, digital distractions and insufficient parental involvement. Some 55% of students experience at least one form of bullying several times a month.
The report recommends investing in teachers' professional development, including mathematics teaching methodology, to strengthen problem-solving instruction. Nation Kenya's editorial board believes that the PISA results should provide grounds for strengthening teaching and learning in the basic education system.
