The purpose of this study was to analyze the factors affecting girls’ access to education in secondary schools in Huye district. Four research questions were formulated to guide the study. The study used the descriptive survey design. The sample for the study was 357 female students, 136 teachers and 13 head teachers~. Data was collected by use of questionnaires. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. The findings revealed that there were cultural factors that contributed to low level of girls’ access to education. These factors include early marriage, early pregnancy, taking care of other family members, preference in education of boys than girls, cultural beliefs, parental level of education and others. The findings of this study also showed that there were also community factors such as inadequate public support, limited participation of women in development activities, political instability and the impact of HIV/AIDS. Concerning economic factors, it was found that there was parental poverty, lack of basic necessities and household activities, etc. There were also school factors such as lack of gender-sensitive and cultural appropriate school facilities, lack of role models, gender selection in learning activities, sexual harassment and others. The study revealed that the level of girls’ access to edOcation in lower than that of boys. Based on the findings, it was concluded that there was a significant relationship between factors affecting girls’ access to education and the level of access. Thus there is a need to empower the community on the need of education of girls so that girls do not miss out school because of cultural, community, economic and school factors.

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