Impact of Resource Distribution and Availability on Primary Schools Pupil Learning Outcomes: Case Study of Chintheche Education Zone, Nkhata Bay, Malawi

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of resource distribution on learning outcomes on nine purposively selected primary schools in the Chintheche Education Zone (previously known as Chihame Zone 1), Nkhata Bay District. Criteria for eligibility were that a school should have administered primary school leaving examinations at least three (3) times and was easy to access by public transport. In addition to document analysis, the study collected data using a questionnaire administered to the head teachers of each school, the Primary Education Advisor (PEA), and District Education Manager (DEM). Descriptive statistical analysis was done to compare pupil performance between schools with optimal resource availability and those without. The study found that the distribution of resources in the Chintheche Education Zone is unequal even though the zone is under one Primary Education Advisor. Schools closest to the trading centre have more resources and perform better than schools located far away from the trading centre and lacking almost in everything. The findings suggest that the unequal distribution of resources affects selection of pupils to secondary schools. The study recommends that fair and equitable distribution of resources would go a long way to achieving equity in access to secondary education.