Abstract:
Education is a basic human right and therefore ought to be equally accessible to both boys and
girls. However, gender disparity persists in Kenya despite the state's attempts to offer free primary
and subsidized secondary education. This has opened up the education sector to NGOs to scale up
service delivery, particularly to those under-served by the government system like girls in Alego
Usonga Sub County. The study examines the impact of NGOs on girls' education in Alego Usonga
Sub County, Siaya County, Kenya, highlighting various dimensions of support provided by these
organizations. It explores how NGOs' interventions, including school fees payment, provision of
personal needs, school uniforms, and mentorship, influence girls' access to and retention in
education. The research, guided by principles of Liberal Feminism (Wollstonecraft, Mill) and
Radical Feminism (Atkinson), employs a mixed-method research design incorporating both
qualitative and quantitative techniques. Through interviews, focus groups, and key informant
discussions, data was gathered to assess the effectiveness of NGO initiatives. Key findings indicate
that NGO support with school fees significantly reduces financial barriers for girls, thereby
preventing dropout and promoting continuous schooling. Additionally, the provision of essential
personal items and school uniforms by NGOs enhances girls' attendance and fosters a conducive
learning environment. Mentorship programs emerged as pivotal, positively impacting girls'
confidence and academic performance. Recommendations emphasize the importance of timely
NGO support at the beginning of terms to avoid disruptions, coordination between NGOs and the
government to ensure consistent provision of resources, and the introduction of mentorship
programs in schools for both genders. Ultimately, the study underscores the critical role of NGOs
in complementing government efforts to achieve educational equity. By addressing barriers to
education through targeted interventions, NGOs contribute significantly to advancing gender
equality and promoting inclusive education practices in marginalized communities like Alego
Usonga.
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