Perceptions of Education Stakeholders on the Implementation of Free Education Policy in Secondary Schools: A case of Selected Nkasi Secondary-Rukwa Region.

This study explored the perception of education stakeholders on free education policy in secondary schools in Nkasi District. The study focused on different research questions with the broad objective of assessing the perceptions education stakeholders have toward the implementation of free education. A sample of 97 participants were involved in the study within five secondary schools. Three data collection methods included; questionnaires, semi-structured interviews and documentary reviews. Findings revealed that 80% of education stakeholders perceived negatively to the innovation. Results indicated that stakeholders although they were not involved in the implementation of FFE policy in many ways including educating parents, pupils and community concerning the innovation, they are not aware with the innovation of free education policy. The study revealed changes due to the implementation of FFE in Nkasi district For example, there was an increase in students’ enrolment, attendance in schools, demands of capitation grants in schools, supply of teaching materials than before, school services and buildings, opportunities for parents and guardian to engage in social and economic activities. The study recommends that the observed challenges should be improved using different strategies. Keywords: Education Stakeholders and Implementation of Free Education Polic