Teacher absenteeism is a persistent issue in Kenyan schools, undermining the quality and consistency of education. The primary reported cause is Sickness, which accounts for a substantial 55.70% of the instances.
The second most frequent cause is Indiscipline, cited in 45.30% of cases, suggesting a need for stronger professional conduct and accountability mechanisms.
Environmental and economic factors also play a critical role, with 39.10% of absenteeism attributed to Calamities (drought/flood), reflecting the impact of climate events on staff mobility and school operations.
Economic pressures drive 26.90% of absences due to Side hustling/Non-teaching income activities. Additional logistical challenges arise from Commuting distance, 18.40%.
Less frequent but still significant causes include Drunkenness 13.50%, followed by Insecurity 9.50%, and Family Issues 5.20%.
