Individual Learners’ Enrolment Status in Primary and Secondary Education: A Case Study of a Rural City in Zambia

This chapter examines the actual enrolment status and the challenges faced by learners in primary and secondary education through cases that have been revealed by the analysis of longitudinal data thus far and recent trends. The results demonstrated that although internal efficiency is favourable in primary education, a considerable controversy is related to the national standardised examination for Grade 7. A number of children lack sufficient learning proficiency, such that future challenges include improving quality and proficiency. In secondary education, approximately 40% of the students were classified as non-straight progression, and some of them exhibited extraordinary patterns that are not typically observed. Moreover, the study found that students undergoing challenging economic circumstances and those who are the eldest in the family are more likely to fall under this category. Thus, paying attention to these students at risk on a daily basis and providing support for their school life is important to improve their schooling conditions in secondary education. In addition, resolving issues beyond the scope of individuals, such as inadequate school facilities and classrooms and the lack of qualified teachers, with urgency is crucial.