GOVERNMENT EXPENDITURE AND TECHNICAL EFFICIENCY IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS: A CASE OF NAROK COUNTY, KENYA
Abstract
Purpose of the Study: To analyze the effect of government expenditure on technical efficiency of public secondary schools in Narok County, Kenya.
Problem Statement: Public secondary schools in ASALs such as Narok County, Kenya, face challenges in achieving optimal technical efficiency, potentially hindering student learning outcomes. While the Kenyan government allocates funds to these schools, the impact of this expenditure on efficiency remains unclear.
Research Methodology: The research study adopted a mixed research approach combining quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. The research design involved the use of existing data on government expenditure and technical efficiency metrics from public secondary schools in Narok County, Kenya.
Results of the Study: Government funding delays significantly impact public secondary schools in Narok County, with an average technical efficiency of just 59.60% and 40.10% inefficiency. Government capitation, infrastructure expenditure, teaching materials, and teacher-student ratio positively affect efficiency, while school size was found insignificant.
Conclusion and Policy Recommendation: By implementing strategic policy interventions, such as increased funding, improved infrastructure, and better teacher-student ratios, the government can bridge efficiency gaps and improve overall school performance and build on the human capital that is needed to propel economies forward.
Keywords: Technical Efficiency, Stochastic Frontier Analysis, Narok County, Kenya
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