Intention of Pastoralist Students’ to Attend University in Borana zone, Ethiopia

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to assess pastoralist students’ intentions to attend university in the Borana zone of Ethiopia. A descriptive survey research design was employed where quantitative and qualitative approaches were used to collect and analyze data. Data were collected from 512 grade 12 students, seven principals and seven districts (Woredas) educational heads. The study used both descriptive statistics and inferential statistics (Pearson correlation and logistic regression). The study revealed that few female students enroll in high schools which in-turn affects the number that enroll in university education as compared to male students. Students lack access to adequate toilets and water while libraries lack books and reference materials. Besides, in most of the school laboratories we not equipped or they had been converted in dormitories. The study also found that sex, life skills gap, and occupation of household head predict decision to attend the university while the drop-out is high for those who join. In conclusion, there is need to encourage female education in pastoralist areas. The government and non-profit organizations working with pastoral communities should provide training on life skills that ensure smooth transition to university or college life.