Exploring academic risks and resilient factors associated with poverty in primary schools in the Mafeteng District
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Date
2025
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National University of Lesotho
Abstract
This study explored the complex relationship between poverty, academic risks, and resilient factors
among primary school learners in the Mafeteng district, Lesotho. By adopting a qualitative
research approach and a phenomenological design, the study utilised a constructivist paradigm to
fully understand participants' lived experiences. The study further identified specific academic
challenges faced by learners from disadvantaged backgrounds, such as limited resources, truancy,
and limited access to quality instruction. Through semi-structured interviews and focus groups
with three principals, three teachers, and five learners from grades five, six, and seven of
participating schools, this research investigated key resilient factors that helped learners from low-
income families overcome adversity. Some of the key resilient factors identified in this study were
strong intrinsic motivation, strong community-based programs such as safe homes, food parcels,
and the availability of mentors, as well as support from teachers, family, and friends. By analysing
these intertwined elements, the study sought to offer valuable insights to inform the development
of targeted educational interventions and policies to improve academic outcomes and foster
resilience among vulnerable learners in the Mafeteng district in Lesotho.
Lastly, the findings revealed that financial constraints displayed a rather major challenge for
smooth learning, which often led to a lack of essentials and created an environment where the
disadvantaged are abused and exploited through child labour and sexual abuse. Regardless, the
study also found that a number of these learners still achieved excellence. This success was mainly
due to support from the community, and safe homes for those who needed a place to stay.
Therefore, there should be more ways in which the learners from disadvantaged homes can be
protected and kept away from those taking advantage of their needs and family status.