School Environment and Participation of Pupils in Co-Curricular Activities in Private Primary Schools in Fort Portal City, Kabarole District, Uganda

Abstract

The study examined the relationship between the school environment and pupils' participation in co-curricular activities in private schools in Fort Portal City. It was guided by three specific objectives including: (1) establishing the relationship between the school cultural environment and pupils' participation in co-curricular activities in private schools in Fort Portal City; (2) assessing the relationship between the school physical environment and pupils' participation in co-curricular activities in private schools in Fort Portal City; and (3) examining the relationship between the school social environment and pupils' participation in co-curricular activities in private schools in Fort Portal City. This study used a c with a study population of 400 individuals and a sample comprised of 196 respondents. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaires and interview guides. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The correlation findings revealed that the school cultural environment was strongly and positively related to co-curricular activities in private primary schools (r = 0.756). The school physical environment exhibited a strong and positive relationship with co-curricular activities in private primary schools (r = 0.822), whereas the school social environment exhibited a strong and positive relationship with co-curricular activities in private primary schools (r = 0.736). Regression analysis results also revealed that the school environment (school cultural environment, school physical environment, and school social environment) has a significant and positive effect on pupils’ participation in co-curricular activities in private primary schools, with net relationships (β = 0.43, β = 0.31, and β = 0.39, respectively).  It is recommended that private schools should strive to create a cultural environment that promotes inclusivity and diversity. This can be achieved by encouraging students from various backgrounds to participate in co-curricular activities, regardless of their academic performance or social status. Schools can organize events that celebrate different cultures, traditions, and talents to foster a sense of belonging among all students. Private schools should prioritize creating inviting and well-equipped spaces for co-curricular activities. This can include dedicated areas for sports, arts, music, drama, and other extracurricular activities. By providing attractive facilities, students are more likely to engage in these activities. Private schools should ensure that they offer a wide range of co-curricular activities that cater to the diverse interests and talents of their students. By providing options such as sports, arts, music, drama, debate clubs, community service projects, and more, schools can engage a larger number of pupils who may have varying preferences.

Country : Uganda

1 Ampaire Stella2 Okello Robert Pius3 Adrawa Johnson

  1. School of Graduate Studies and Research (SGSR), Team University, P.O. Box 8128 Mengo, Kabaka A’njagala Road, Kampala, Uganda
  2. School of Graduate Studies and Research (SGSR), Team University, P.O. Box 8128 Mengo, Kabaka A’njagala Road, Kampala, Uganda
  3. School of Graduate Studies and Research (SGSR), Team University, P.O. Box 8128 Mengo, Kabaka A’njagala Road, Kampala, Uganda

IRJIET, Volume 8, Issue 9, September 2024 pp. 198-229

doi.org/10.47001/IRJIET/2024.809025

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