Greener Journal of Educational Research

Greener Journal of  Educational Research Vol. 3 (6), pp. 283-288, August 2013

 ISSN: 2276-7789 

Research Paper 

Manuscript Number: 011813393

 

Child Friendly Schools

 

Leona Mandiudza

 

Curriculum Studies Department Great Zimbabwe University.

 

Email: lmandiudza @ gmail.com

Abstract:

The phenomenal, massive and quantitative expansion of the Zimbabwean education system of 1980 resulted in significant challenges related to scarcity of resources. This study explored barriers to the promotion and development of Child Friendly Schools (CFS) a model developed to deal with all aspects affecting quality education in schools. The research was a case study of five (5) purposively sampled primary schools in Chiredzi district of Masvingo province, schools that are shunned by teachers. The data was collected through an analysis of the UNICEF framework for a rights-based Child-friendly educational systems to see how far schools fall within that framework. School heads, and teachers responded to structured questionnaires regarding challenges they encounter in their efforts to develop child friendly schools. Pupils and parents were interviewed in order to solicit their views on the state of their schools. The study found out that the absence of teaching and learning resources and ignorance of the convention on the rights of children contributed to the poor conditions in schools, conditions that thwart learning, not only at school but even at home, in the community and society at large. It was also established that most students are not aware of their rights; thought schooling was good as it is and were therefore not complaining. The research study recommended that the government has to intervene as a matter of urgency to see that these poor schools are adequately funded. There is need for all stakeholders to work together for the good of the schools thereby promoting quality by creating a conducive atmosphere for the teaching and learning process. This will enhance the creation of child friendly schools..
 
Keywords: Child-Friendly Schools model Challenges.

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