Graffiti: Communication Strategies for Secondary School Students in Kenya

We present findings of a study carried out to establish the social messages expressed by graffiti as a means of communication by secondary school students in Nyandarua district. A sampling frame of schools was constructed from all the divisions in Nyandarua district. They were categorized as either Boys’ or Girls’ schools. Three schools were selected from  each division. A sample of graffiti texts (both scribble and sketches) in the schools chosen were selected. Ten students from the selected schools were used to collect graffiti texts in their respective schools. However, only five students and two teachers were randomly selected and interviewed and their responses recorded on audio tapes. The data collected was analyzed by use of statistical measurements and presented in tables, graphs and pie charts. The Ministry of Education and Education Stakeholders may find such findings useful in detecting and stemming impending strikes in learning institutions in Kenya. It will also assist school managers and teachers in understanding the students in an attempt to create a conducive and peaceful learning environment and eventually improve performance.