Influence of drug abuse on student academic performance in public secondary schools in kenya: a case study of vihiga and sabatia sub-counties

Drug abuse is becoming increasingly a concern in Kenya. Studies done globally have shown that students abuse drugs. The foremost concern is the number of these students that can become addicted to serious substances, jeopardizing their own health and safety and creating difficulties for their families and the society at large. Preliminary survey in five schools revealed that students in Vihiga and Sabatia sub-counties were abusing drugs. It was also alleged that poor academic performance was noted among students who abused drugs. What was not known was the influence of drug abuse on student academic performance in secondary schools in Vihiga and Sabatia sub-counties. The objective of the study was to establish influence of drug abuse on student academic performance in Vihiga and Sabatia sub-counties. A conceptual framework showing influence of drug abuse on student academic performance in secondary schools was used to guide the study. The study established that drug abuse influenced students’ academic performance both principals and Guidance and Counseling teachers agreed that it had high negative influence. The findings of this study are useful to the managers of schools in Kenya and other countries of the world in understanding the issues related to substance abuse among students in their schools and to come up with strategies to be used in addressing substance abuse related issues in Kenya .