Intersecting Inequalities in Kenyan Education: A Bordieuan Lens on Economic, Social, and Cultural Capital A Bourdieuian Lens on Economic, Social, and Cultural Capital
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Abstract
This paper investigates how Pierre Bourdieu’s forms of capital, economic, social, and cultural intersect to shape educational outcomes among students in Kenya. Drawing from qualitative fieldwork conducted in both urban (Nairobi) and rural (Turkana/Bungoma) contexts, the study offers a comparative case analysis of how unequal distributions of these capitals influence academic trajectories. Using semi-structured interviews, classroom observations, and document analysis, this research reveals that disparities in capital reinforce cycles of privilege and disadvantage within the Kenyan education system. Recommendations include equity-centered educational policies and localized interventions to recognize and support undercapitalized learners. The findings contribute to policy and scholarly discourse on education equity in Sub-Saharan Africa.
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References
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