The Impact of Free Primary Education in Kenya

Abstract

In 2003, Kenya initiated free primary education, receiving mixed public opinions. Despite numerous studies, the program's impact on schools of different socioeconomic backgrounds remains understudied. This study aims to understand the effects of Kenya's free primary education on various schools. Using data from the Harvard Dataverse and World Bank, it evaluates factors like enrollment rates, education quality, and government expenditure. The data reveals a significant rise in enrollment rates, particularly among historically underrepresented groups. However, the implications for education quality are mixed. While the gender gap in enrollment has decreased, challenges in maintaining educational quality persist. Enhancing education quality requires investments in teacher training, resources, and infrastructure. For continued progress, sustained government funding is essential