Challenges of accessing education for children in alternative care institutions: a study of children in Tusitukirewamu group in Bwaise, Kawempe Division.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to understand the challenges of accessing education for children in alternative care institutions, using a case of Tusitukirewamu group in Bwaise, Kawempe division. The study was guided by two objectives namely (i) to find out the education experiences and progress of children out of family care and; (ii) to identify key challenges faced by children out of family. The study was purely qualitative in nature and employed a purposive sampling strategy to identify the respondents. The sample size of the study was relatively small with a total number of nine primary respondents and two key informants. Data was collected through in-depth interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis method. The findings of the study were presented in narrative form so as to enhance quicker and better understanding of the challenges of accessing education for children in alternative care institutions. The findings of the study highlighted a number of challenges faced by children in alternative care institutions in accessing education. These included among others the cost of education, attachment difficulties, relationship with caregiver as well as teachers and finally inconsistent social support. These were thoroughly discussed in detail by the researcher. The study recommends that the government and other stakeholders with a mandate to provide education to provide adequate resources to alternative care institutions to remove barriers to children’s education.