AN EXAMINATION OF POSSIBLE CAUSES, EFFECTS AND SOLUTIONS OF STUDENT ABSENTEEISM IN SELECTED SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN ZOMBA DISTRICT

Abstract

Student absenteeism is a recurrent problem in Malawian schools despite various efforts within the country to fight the problem. Although there have been many studies on the problem worldwide, considerable knowledge gaps exists on the subject in Malawi because many of the available studies were conducted in primary schools. In a bid to feed into that gap, this study aimed at investigating the possible causes of student absenteeism; its effects on teaching and learning in Malawian secondary schools and finding possible solutions. Purposive sampling was used to select secondary schools, teachers and students in Zomba District. The study employed interpretive qualitative and quantitative approaches to collect information directly from affected individuals within the social context in which absenteeism occur. The study revealed the underlying causes of student absenteeism as emanating from the institution due to problems related to subjects or teachers, school administration and inadequacy of school facilities. Students’ laziness and tiredness, punctuality, peer pressure, home responsibility, lack of parental encouragement and poverty are among social and economic causes of absenteeism. It was established further that absenteeism has damaging effects on school image, effective teaching and learning that make it difficult for absentees to connect and understand lessons, use time effectively and lose interest in both learning and extra-curricular activities. The study suggests the need for the promotion of information flow between teachers, students, parents and the community, observation of work ethics, school rules and regulations and community participation in supervising, monitoring and evaluation of both student attendance and teacher performance in secondary schools.