An investigation into the impact of camfed bursary scheme in S3 schools: the case of Mola and Siakobvu clusters in Nyaminyami rural district

Abstract

This study assessed the impact of Camfed’s bursary scheme in S3 schools focusing on five schools in Mola and Siakobvu clusters of Nyaminyami rural district. The study aimed at identifying outcomes of Camfed’s bursary scheme in S3 schools. A qualitative descriptive survey design was used and data were collected from a wide range of participants namely school heads, teachers, Camfed mentors, parents and learners. Questionnaires, interviews, focus groups and document study were the main research instruments used. Findings revealed that Camfed’s bursary scheme enabled many girls to attend school regularly although their performances in public examinations were still below the expected standard. Tonga subject, which was once a marginalized language, was being taught and examined in S3 schools. It is concluded that through Camfed’s bursary scheme the enrolment, attendance, retention, completion rates, and the teaching and learning process of girl children in S3 schools were being improved. The study recommends that the Ministry of Education make provisions in colleges and universities for training of Tonga language teachers. There is need for constructing a boarding school facility in Nyaminyami district to improve academic performance and also reduce long distances covered travelling to school by children in S3 schools and risks associated with bush boarding.