Access to educational support for orphaned learners in three selected secondary schools in Lusaka.

Abstract

This study explored access to educational support for orphaned learners in three selected secondary schools in Lusaka district. The study was based on three objectives. (i) To describe the awareness of the rights on Educational support by the orphans in three selected secondary schools in Lusaka District (ii) To explore challenges faced by orphans’ in accessing educational support in three selected secondary schools in Lusaka District and (iii) To highlight strategies that should be put in place in order to allow them have access to educational support in three selected secondary schools in Lusaka District. A qualitative descriptive research design was employed in this study underpinned by constructivism. Participants included 9 teachers and 15 pupils. Data was gathered by semi-structured interviews and Focus Group Discussion. The study reported that very few learners were knowledgeable about the support system existing for them as orphans. Some teachers were aware of the educational support given to orphans but they were not sure if there was a policy or rights in Zambia supporting such rights. The study revealed that orphans faced a lot of challenges in accessing the educational support. The key challenges faced included lack of sponsorship, social stigma and corruption in sponsorship awards. In view of the challenges being faced by the orphans, the study highlighted possible strategies to ensure that the orphans have access to education, these included, increased financial support system, enhancing collaboration among stakeholders, empowering orphans with diverse skills, and motivation ventures for well performing orphans. The study recommended that there is need to formulate a deliberate policy by the Ministry of Sports, Youth and Child Development that should look into the affairs of orphans in society. Further, there is need for the relevant authority to coordinate other organizations that look into the plight of orphans to come on board for support. Key words: Orphans, Education, Support, Access. Lusaka, Zambia