Understanding teacher retention challenges in East Kenya Union Conference SDA Secondary Schools in Kenya

Résumé

Teacher retention remains a critical challenge in both public and private education systems, particularly in faith-based institutions where spiritual mission intersects with employment conditions. This study examined the determinants of teacher retention in Seventh-day Adventist secondary schools in Kenya, focusing on school administration, socio-economic status of schools, motivational strategies, wage administration, and religious commitment. The study adopted a concurrent mixed-methods research design, where quantitative data were collected through structured questionnaires and qualitative data were obtained through interviews, observations, and document analysis. The target population included principals, education directors, Board of Management chairpersons, and teachers across selected SDA secondary schools in Kenya. Findings indicate that teacher retention is influenced by a combination of institutional and intrinsic factors. School administration moderately supports retention through participatory decision-making and policy clarity, although limited career development opportunities constrain its effectiveness. Socio-economic challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, limited teaching resources, and poor staff welfare conditions negatively affect retention. Motivational strategies are inconsistently applied, with weak recognition systems and limited professional development opportunities, although some schools provide basic welfare support. Wage administration presents concerns related to salary delays and policy inconsistencies. Notably, religious commitment emerged as the strongest determinant of retention, with teachers viewing their work as a divine calling and a form of ministry, which enhances their resilience and long-term commitment.The study concludes that while structural and economic factors remain important, intrinsic religious motivation plays a dominant role in sustaining teacher retention in SDA secondary schools. It recommends strengthening administrative support systems, improving working conditions, standardizing motivational practices, and ensuring fair wage administration while maintaining the strong spiritual foundation of Adventist education.