Mothers and Schooling: Poverty, Gender and Educational Decision-Making in Rural Kenya

This ground-breaking book explores educational decision-making and the struggles of mothers in rural Kenya to educate their children, despite the 'free education policy. It provides a nuanced ethnographic portrait of 32 mothers and their livelihoods and aspirations, drawing upon African feminist perspectives. The findings illustrate the importance of recognizing the diversity of mothers situations and the pressures they face to be 'good mothers who school their children.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 236 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This groundbreaking book delves into the intricate realm of educational decision-making and explores the profound ways in which schooling patterns are shaped by and reshape rural communities. Through a compassionate and in-depth ethnographic study, it offers a humanizing portrayal of the challenges faced by mothers in rural Kenya, despite the purported benefits of the "free education policy."

Based on a prize-winning research that delved into the attitudes of mothers towards education in a rural Kenyan community, this meticulously researched ethnographic work draws upon African feminist perspectives to shed light on the livelihoods, aspirations, and experiences of 32 mothers, who are responsible for over 180 children. It delves into the intricate interplay of factors such as mothers' school histories, the constraints imposed by land practices and patriarchal culture, and the diverse strategies they employ to navigate the educational landscape.

The findings of Mothers and Schooling provide valuable insights into the complex dynamics that shape mothers' school choices and engagement strategies. These strategies are influenced by various facilitating environments, educational values, the utilization of social mothering practices, and their reliance on kinship reciprocity. The study highlights the importance of recognizing the diverse situations of mothers within this small community and the pressures they face to fulfill the role of "good mothers who school their children."

This book holds immense significance for anthropologists of education, gender studies scholars, poverty alleviation strategists, educational researchers, teachers, and policy-makers who are committed to improving the success of Education for All for the children of women living in Southern rural poverty. By shedding light on the educational agency of mothers, it offers valuable insights into the factors that contribute to educational disparities and provides practical strategies for addressing these challenges.

In conclusion, Mothers and Schooling is a groundbreaking work that expands our understanding of educational decision-making and the complex interplay between schooling patterns, rural communities, and the lives of mothers. Through its compassionate portrayal and insightful analysis, it contributes to our collective efforts to create more inclusive and equitable educational systems that empower women and promote the well-being of all children.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367746568