CONTRIBUTION OF NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS’ EDUCATION SUBSIDY ON GIRLS’ SCHOOLING: A CASE OF DREAMS PROJECT IN ALEGO USONGA SUB COUNTY, SIAYA COUNTY, KENYA

Education is a basic human right and therefore ought to be equally accessible to both boys and girls. However, gender disparity persists in Kenya despite the state's attempts to offer free primary and subsidized secondary education. This has opened up the education sector to NGOs to scale up service delivery, particularly to those underserved by the government system, like girls in Alego Usonga Sub County. The study examines the impact of NGOs on girls' education in Alego Usonga Sub County, Siaya County, Kenya, highlighting various dimensions of support provided by these organizations. It explores how NGOs' interventions, including school fees payment, provision of personal needs, school uniforms, and mentorship, influence girls' access to and retention in education. The research, guided by principles of Liberal Feminism (Wollstonecraft, Mill) and Radical Feminism (Atkinson), employs a mixed-method research design incorporating both qualitative and quantitative techniques. Through interviews, focus groups, and key informant discussions, data was gathered to assess the effectiveness of NGO initiatives. Key findings indicate that NGO support with school fees significantly reduces financial barriers for girls, thereby preventing dropout and promoting continuous schooling. Additionally, the provision of essential personal items and school uniforms by NGOs enhances girls' attendance and fosters a conducive learning environment. Mentorship programs emerged as pivotal, positively impacting girls' confidence and academic performance. Recommendations emphasize the importance of timely NGO support at the beginning of terms to avoid disruptions, coordination between NGOs and the government to ensure consistent provision of resources, and the introduction of mentorship programs in schools for both genders. Ultimately, the study underscores the critical role of NGOs in complementing government efforts to achieve educational equity. By addressing barriers to education through targeted interventions, NGOs contribute significantly to advancing gender equality and promoting inclusive education practices in marginalized communities like Alego Usonga.