Influence of selected factors on academic performance of students in secondary school Agriculture, in Rachuonyo North District, Kenya

Abstract

Successful completion of this study was made possible by many people with whom I have met along my academic journey. First, I want to thank my supervisors’ Professor Nephat Kathuri and Dr. James Obara for their knowledgeable and helpful suggestions. Their profound commitment to improving this work and guiding it through to completion was unequalled. Additionally, this study could not have been successful without the support of Dr. David Amudavi of International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology whose support and guidance was instrumental to my academic success, especially during my proposal writing. I will always appreciate the quality learning experience at Egerton University and in particular The Department of Agricultural Education and Extension and the Graduate School. I extend sincere thanks to Rachuonyo North District Education Officer who supported my educational pursuits, especially while collecting data of the past agriculture K.C.S.E examinations. I thank all the school principals, agriculture teachers and agriculture students in Rachuonyo North District who helped in filling in my questionnaires and thus supporting me during data collection. I want to thank my friends and colleagues who became personal friends as a result of my educational journey: Alfred Odhiambo, Paul Njogu, Kileon Obiero, Dismas Odula, Mahalon Oremo, Julius Nyang’or, Samwel Mugweru and Joshua Omollo for their help and advice, I am grateful to many people who have sustained my energy in writing this thesis. I could not have completed this academic pursuit without the assistance of my wife, Quinter, children and parents. In the course of this research and elsewhere over the years, I have benefited immensely from their unfailing love, encouragement, and enthusiasm. Lastly, to my brothers Tobias and James and friends, I do not have enough words to say thank you for being there for me all of these years. Without your constant support and encouragement, I would not be realizing a dream come true. You gave me strength and confidence and I am forever grateful.