Gendered Effects of COVID-19 School Closures: Kenya Case Study. GIRL Center Research Brief No. 11

ABSTRACT

This brief summarizes a case study that assessed the gendered impact of COVID-19 school closures in Kenya. COVID-19 school closures escalated education inequalities especially for girls and young people in rural areas. These closures exacerbated adolescent mental health issues, food and economic insecurity, and experiences of violence. COVID-19 response programs implemented by both the Government of Kenya and non-state actors were not able to fully mitigate the impacts of school closures for adolescents, teachers, or schools. Continued efforts to understand the implications of school closures and to support vulnerable students are needed. [This brief was prepared with the support of Faith Mbushi, Natalie Wyss, Emily EunYoung Cho, Karen Austrian, Eva Muluve, Laura Muthoni, and Beth Kangwana.]