Abstract:
The study investigated the financing mechanisms in ECE centres in Kakamega
County using descriptive survey design. Purposive sampling was used to select 3 sub- counties giving 30 % of the population. Proportionate stratified random sampling was
used to select 30% of the ECE centres. Head teachers and one ECE teacher from each
ECE participated in the study. However where more than one teacher was found in an
ECE centre, simple random sampling through balloting was used to select the one to
participate. The DEOs and DICECE Officers of the selected districts were selected
purposively to participate in the study. Structured questionnaires were used to collect
data from the ECE head teachers and teachers, interview schedules from the DEOs
and DICECE officers and observation schedules used to collect data on availability of
physical facilities. The instruments were validated through expert judgement and
pilot-testing. The findings revealed that parents were the main financiers of ECE
programs. The study recommended that; ECE should be streamlined within the policy
of free primary education.
