The Level of Awareness of Alcohol and Substance Abuse Interventions Being Implemented in Public Boarding Secondary Schools in Kitui West Sub-County

Author: Joyce Mutheu Nguu, Professor Anne Kanga, Dr. Maria Ntarangwe

Date: 2025

Abstract: The study aimed at the level of awareness of alcohol and substance abuse interventions being implemented in public boarding secondary schools in kitui west sub-county. The researcher used a convergent mixed method design to collect and analyze both quantitative and qualitative data. The study sampled 391 participants from 6 public boarding secondary schools in Kitui West Sub-County, including principals, teacher counselors, teachers, and students, using both probability and non-probability sampling techniques. Data collection instruments included interviews, questionnaires, and focus group discussions, all validated by experts and tested for reliability. The researcher followed ethical guidelines, ensuring informed consent, confidentiality, and voluntary participation. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27 for quantitative results and thematic analysis for qualitative insights. Based on the evidence gathered, the researcher arrived at the conclusion that there was a commendable level of awareness among the teachers and students of alcohol and substance abuse interventions being implemented in school with counselling being the most employed strategy. In addition, the use of peer education, and guest speakers reflects a proactive effort, yet the limited use of interactive formats like workshops and student participation reduces the overall effectiveness of these interventions. Although counselling plays a central role, an over-reliance on it without adequately integrating other approaches weakens the holistic impact. The Ministry of Education should standardize and regularly review school policies on alcohol and substance abuse to ensure consistency and relevance across all institutions, with annual updates to address emerging trends.

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