SAFETY PREPAREDNESS OF SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN EMBU EAST SUB-COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

School safety is a crucial part of the teaching-learning process because it gives pupils the chance to reach their full learning, development, and growth potential. This study sought to investigate the Embu East Sub-County's secondary schools' safety preparedness, in Embu County, Kenya, using a mixed methods research methodology. Finding out staff knowledge of school safety, identifying secondary school safety measures, identifying barriers they encounter in implementing school safety regulations, and examining teachers' perspectives of school safety were the specific goals of the study. Teachers, security personnel, and deputy principals from public secondary schools in Embu East SubCounty participated in the study. Data was gathered through surveys, interviews, and observations. To confirm the validity and dependability of the data gathering tools, a pilot research was carried out with five deputy principals, six teachers, and five security guards chosen from the target population. The study included a sample of 135 teachers, 44 security guards, and 44 deputy principals. The quantitative data schools was analyzed using descriptive statistics such as mean, median, and standard deviation. The data was presented using tables, graphs, charts, frequencies, and percentages. Qualitative data were audio-recorded, transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis for emerging themes. The results reveal that while a majority of teachers (64%) reported some awareness of school safety, significant gaps remain in training and policy implementation. Only 6% of schools had installed the required safety equipment, and over 70% lacked customized safety policies. Key challenges included inadequate safety equipment (74%), lack of training (67%), and financial constraints. Teachers and deputy principals also expressed concerns over low safety preparedness and limited access to safety tools, highlighting the urgent need to enhance awareness, training, and infrastructure for school safety. Through raising awareness of the safety procedures, this study offers helpful insights into initiatives that may be made to enhance the level of safety preparedness in schools.