BARRIERS TO REPORTING GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE AMONG LEARNERS IN JUNIOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN RANGWE SUBCOUNTY, HOMABAY COUNTY, KENYA

Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in schools determine learners’ academic achievement in Kenya. Despite the Learner Safety Policy 2022, underreporting persists in Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) under the Competency Based Education, particularly in rural sub counties. This study examined the barriers to reporting GBV among learners in JSS in Rangwe Sub County, Homabay County. A descriptive mixed methods design was adopted. Data was collected from 360 learners using structured questionnaires. 12 deputy principals through FGD and Key Informants through interviews. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS version 27, while qualitative date was analyzed thematically NVivo 14. Findings revealed that reporting was hindered by multiple barriers. At individual level 68% of learners cited fear of stigma and relation. At school level, 72% reported low awareness of reporting channels, while 64% lacked trust in teachers. Community level barriers included parental discouragement and preference for informal settlement. Institutional gaps included weak coordination of schools and child protection agencies. The study concluded that barriers to reporting GBV in Rangwe JSS are interlinked across ecological levels. Recommendations include: establishing confidential reporting mechanisms, training teachers on trauma informed response and strengthening interagency coordination led by the sub-county children’s office. Addressing these barriers is critical to achieving safe learning environment under CBC.