Drought as a Determinant on Retention of Pupils in Public Primary Schools: A Case of Garissa County-Northern Kenya

This study investigates the impact of drought on the retention rates of pupils in public primary schools in Garissa County, Northern Kenya. Arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs) cover a significant portion of the Earth's surface and support a substantial population despite severe water scarcity. In Kenya, drought has led to food insecurity, affecting millions and disrupting education. This research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from school records with qualitative interviews with educators and officials. Descriptive analysis reveals high dropout rates, particularly in remote and drought-affected sub-counties, with variations indicating the role of school feeding programs in mitigating these rates. Inferential analysis shows significant positive correlations between water scarcity, economic hardship, and dropout rates, while the presence of school feeding programs correlates negatively with dropout rates. The findings highlight the multifaceted impact of drought on education and underscore the need for comprehensive strategies, including improved water access, economic support, and reliable feeding programs, to enhance educational outcomes and support community resilience in drought-prone regions.