The holistic impact of chaplaincy in Kenyan secondary schools : a case study of Kyanguli Memorial Secondary School

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate the holistic impact of chaplaincy in Kenyan secondary schools. In order to achieve this purpose research was carried out with Kyanguli Memorial secondary school as a case study. Data was collected primarily through interviews with intentionally chosen staff and students using an interview guide. More data was also collected through observation and document review. The research investigated the methods used by the school chaplain to develop the school community holistically, types of unruly behaviors found in the school, effectiveness of chaplaincy services and the marks of holistic development in the school. The research emphasized that the function of chaplaincy in schools was to help students and staff to realize their potentials, so as to mould their own personality and future. Every individual properly assisted by a chaplain can grow to be a wellrounded person by accepting responsibility and taking personal initiative. The study alluded that chaplaincy work was to support, sustain and encourage each individual towards personal holistic development. This study also showed that chaplaincy office needed to be supported by the school community, the church and the government through the Ministry of Education. The study called for co-responsibility in promotion of personal growth and maturity of students and staff in the Kenyan secondary schools. However each individual staff and student must put up with the hard facts of life, and constantly endeavor to improve by putting together his or her potentialities to mould a satisfactory and successful future. Based on these findings, recommendations were made for secondary schools, church, institutions of higher theological education and the Ministry of Education. Recommendations were given to the church and higher institutions of theological learning to consider training chaplains to effectively facilitate holistic nurture and holistic development in secondary schools. Recommendations were also given to secondary schools to endeavor to integrate academic learning with spiritual nurture.