Women and Education in Kenya

Abstract

Muthoka, Seraphine Mwikali, Women and Education in Kenya. Doctor of Education (Executive Educational Leadership), May 2021, Houston Baptist University, Houston, Texas. The intended purpose of this study is to add new perspectives to the existing body of knowledge on the experiences and perspectives of Kenyan women in pursuit of university education. The purposes of this research study are to (a) gain a deeper understanding of the challenges Kenyan women must overcome to access university education, (b) the support they receive when pursuing a university education, and (c) find out the advice Kenyan women who have attained either a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, or a doctorate have for fellow Kenyan women who desire to achieve a university education. Data was collected through case studies from six Kenyan women who fit the defined criteria. Findings from each case study were analyzed individually, followed by cross-case analysis to bring out themes. The themes were (a) barriers to higher university education for Kenyan women, (b) support for Kenyan women pursuing university education, and (c) advice for Kenyan women on pursuing university education. Participants noted challenges like financial limitations, lack of government support, marginalization, stigmatization, and stereotyping against women. All participants acknowledged having several support systems. However, patriarchal and matriarchal support were sighted as the most important. The participants reflected on their academic experiences to advise Kenyan women aspiring for higher education, encouraging them to be resilient and adapt coping mechanisms to deal with the challenges. Implications of the findings were discussed and recommendations for future studies made based on gaps that emerged in the literature review and in the analysis and discussions of the findings in the study.