THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN OPEN ENROLMENT AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF PUPILS IN GOVERNMENT-AIDED PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN MAKINDYE SSABAGABO MUNICIPAL COUNCIL. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

Abstract

Background:

The study aimed to examine the relationship between open enrolment and the academic performance of pupils in Government-aided primary schools in Makindye Ssabagabo Municipal Council.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional survey design was employed among 16 UPE Schools of Ndejje, Masajja, and Bunamwaya Division, Makindye Ssabagabo Municipal Council, Wakiso district. Both probability and non-probability sampling techniques were used to select primary seven pupils to participate in the study. The method was used to give every primary seven pupils a chance to participate in the study and eliminate bias. The total sample size of 142 comprised of primary seven pupils, teachers, and head teachers. Purposive sampling was used to select teachers and head teachers as respondents to provide in-depth information on enrollment criteria in the 5 selected primary schools and the academic performance of pupils in these government-aided schools in Makindye Ssabagabo Municipal Council

 Results

The findings showed that schools have a relatively open enrollment policy, with a lack of strict criteria and a tendency to enroll pupils without emphasizing their previous academic performance. The class sizes are large due to open enrollment. The findings also indicate that the schools don’t have stringent measures such as interviews or probation for pupils with low academic performance.

 Conclusion:

School enrollment has a significant relationship with the academic performance of pupils in government-aided primary schools in Makindye Municipality, Wakiso District.

Recommendation:

Schools should develop targeted interventions or support programs to improve academic performance in specific exams.