A cross-sectional study on the effect of participatory budget implementation and monitoring on learners’ academic performance in government-aided primary schools in Kitagwenda District.

Abstract

Background

Participatory budgeting (PB) is a democratic process that enables community members, including parents, teachers, learners, and other stakeholders, to actively engage in deciding how a portion of a public budget is allocated and spent. This study assesses the effect of participatory budget implementation and monitoring on learners’ academic performance in government-aided primary schools in Kitagwenda District.

 Methodology.

A descriptive cross-sectional survey design with a mixed methods approach was employed. Respondents were sampled using purposive and systematic random sampling techniques. Data were collected using questionnaires, interview guides, and documentary review checklists. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS version 20.0, while qualitative data were analyzed through thematic analysis.

 Results.

Majority of the participants were SMC Chairpersons with 57 (17.4%), 95 (28.9%) had between 1 and 3 years of service, Participatory Budget Implementation has a significant positive correlation with end of term exam scores (r = 0.579, p < 0.01), grade progression rate (r = 0.540, p < 0.01), and PLE grades (r = 0.622, p < 0.01). Participatory Budget Monitoring has the strongest correlations, with values of 0.601 for end-of-term exam scores, 0.559 for grade progression, and 0.647 for PLE grades, all significant at p < 0.01. The regression coefficients results showed that Participatory Budget Monitoring has the strongest effect among the three predictors, with a B value of 0.376 and a beta of 0.356

 Conclusion.

Participatory budget implementation and monitoring each have significant positive influences on academic outcomes. Schools that actively involve various stakeholders, such as school staff, parents, and community members, in budgeting activities tend to experience better academic results.

 Recommendation.

School administration should institutionalize participatory budgeting practices by ensuring the consistent involvement of all stakeholders, including teachers, parents, finance committees, and student leaders, throughout the stages of budget formulation, implementation, and monitoring.