This study set out to examine the gender dimensions in dropout rates at secondary school level in Siaya
County of Western Kenya. It sought to investigate and identify the key factors that influence school
dropout rates of boys and girls in secondary schools in Siaya. The overall objective of the study was to
explore the gender dimensions in dropout rates in secondary schools in the County and ascertain factors
that influence this dropout. The study was guided by the liberal feminist theory of education.
This was a cross-sectional descriptive study. The sample population consisted of 50 male and 50 female
dropouts from 31 public secondary schools in the County. Data were collected using semi-structured
interviews, direct observation, key informant interviews and narratives and secondary sources.
Quantitative data were analysed using the SPSS (version 11.5), and findings presented in tables of
frequencies and percentages as well as bar charts. Qualitative data were analysed according to emerging
themes and interpreted in relation to the research objectives. Quantitative data were obtained from
school records through liaison with school administration and Constituency Education Offices.
The study found that as much as gender stereotypes and norms still exist among the Luo community in
Siaya County, the community now gives equal opportunity for education to both boys and girls.
However, many parents and guardians are unable to pay school fees regularly for their children due to
their poor socio-economic status which leads to high dropouts. The study concludes that high poverty
levels which result in lack of school fees, early pregnancies, forced repetitions and indiscipline, the
impact of HIV and AIDS together with a non-supportive home environment, are key factors that
contribute to dropout rate at secondary level education in the County. The study, therefore,
recommends the establishment of mechanisms by the County Government to ensure a transparent, fair
and gender responsive method of identifying genuine needy cases for allocation of bursaries and also
for addressing the many cases of early pregnancies and low value for education which are some of the
key drivers of secondary school dropout for both boys and girls in Siaya County.