Introduction
Education is a crucial determinant of health and a fundamental human right. However, disparities in educational attainment persist globally, particularly among vulnerable groups such as orphaned and separated children and adolescents (OSCA). A recent study titled "Effect of care environment on educational attainment among orphaned and separated children and adolescents in Western Kenya" sheds light on how different care environments impact the educational outcomes of OSCA in Kenya. This blog explores the study's findings and offers insights for practitioners seeking to improve educational outcomes for these children.
Understanding the Study
The study analyzed data from a cohort of OSCA living in both institutional and family-based settings in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya. The researchers aimed to compare educational attainment between these two groups, focusing on primary and secondary school completion rates. The findings revealed that children living in institutional environments were more likely to complete primary school and at least one year of secondary school compared to those in family-based settings. However, they were less likely to complete all four years of secondary school.
Implications for Practitioners
Practitioners working with OSCA can draw several lessons from this study to enhance their support strategies:
- Focus on Early Education: The study highlights the importance of early education, as children in institutional settings showed higher primary school completion rates. Practitioners should prioritize early educational interventions to ensure children in family-based settings receive similar support.
- Address Barriers to Secondary Education: Despite higher primary school completion rates, children in institutions faced challenges in completing secondary education. Practitioners should identify and address barriers such as financial constraints and the transition challenges faced by youth aging out of institutional care.
- Strengthen Support Systems: For children in family-based settings, enhancing the educational support provided by guardians can improve outcomes. Training and resources for guardians can play a vital role in ensuring children have the necessary support to succeed academically.
Encouraging Further Research
While this study provides valuable insights, further research is needed to explore the nuances of care environments and their impact on educational outcomes. Practitioners are encouraged to engage in or support research efforts that investigate:
- The long-term educational and social impacts of different care environments.
- Strategies to improve secondary school completion rates for OSCA.
- The role of community-based interventions in supporting educational attainment.
Conclusion
The study underscores the need for targeted interventions to improve educational outcomes for OSCA in Kenya. By understanding the impact of care environments and implementing evidence-based strategies, practitioners can play a crucial role in ensuring that all children have access to quality education, paving the way for better health and socioeconomic outcomes.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Effect of care environment on educational attainment among orphaned and separated children and adolescents in Western Kenya.
