Determinants of Females’ Primary School Participation and Persistence in SNNPR

Abstract

The intent of this study was to examine the salient factors that limit females‟ participation in education with particular reference to SNNPR. To generate the relevant data, questionnaire, interview, community conversation and review of documents were employed. Agere Selam, Awassa, and Alaba were the study settings that were selected on the basis of purposive sampling. Parents, female dropouts, female teachers and education officials took part in the study in recognition of their role towards the desired end. The assessment was carried out by employing a descriptive survey method. Both qualitative and quantitative techniques have been used to analyze the data obtained. Consequently, poverty, need for child labor, male preference in educating children, lack of female role models in rural schools, teachers; perception of females as incompetent, and early and/or forced marriage were identified as major hindrances of girls‟ participation and persistence in education. The study also forwarded useful recommendations that help to alleviate the prevailing challenges.