| dc.description.abstract | Poverty has however remained a stumbling block for most people to attain this basic right.
This study sought to investigate the causes and effects of poverty on academic achievement
in the Sabina community of Chambishi in Kalulushi district. As well, the researcher wanted
to determine which school initiatives teachers believed to be helpful at mitigating these
barriers. The study sought to expose the challenges poverty stricken pupils face in their quest
for education, subsequently leading them to drop out of school. The methodology which
guided this study was a case study. Data was gathered using questionnaires, face to face
interviews and document analysis. A sample of thirty (30) pupils, 10 teachers, 10 parents and
10 teenagers who have dropped out of school was surveyed using in-depth interview and
questionnaires. The study revealed that death of breadwinners and lack of education are the
prime causes of poverty in the Sabina community. The results of this study indicated that
poverty negatively impacts on the academic achievement of pupils. Findings also indicated
that poverty related barriers were significant. School initiatives that were found most helpful
were those that addressed chronic hunger, diverse learning needs, parental involvement, and
sense of belonging. Teachers found that it was important for pupils to have access to adult
mentors, to have opportunities to engage in the arts and physical activity, and to participate in
learning experiences that are meaningful. Teachers also stressed the importance of inclusive
school community. Findings indicated that most teachers felt that their teacher training had
not prepared them adequately to teach in areas of high poverty, but that their professional
development had increased their awareness and understanding of poverty related issues. The
study therefore recommends that school authorities stagger payment of school fees in order
to accommodate the less privileged students. The study further recommends that the donor
community channel resources to education and feed pupils who came from impoverished
backgrounds. | en_US |
