…Increase in school dropout rates threatens Nigeria’s Future
By Sodiq Adelakun
Innocent faces of children between the ages of 4 and 10 reflect the harsh reality of their circumstances as they beg for alms.
A recent observation by FTN has brought to light the distressing phenomenon that many of these children are forced into begging by their parents or guardians.
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This deprives them of the opportunity to receive a proper education, hindering their chances of a brighter future.Interviews with the children revealed that some were compelled to beg by their own parents, who faced dire economic circumstances and saw no other option but to send their children onto the streets in search of alms.
The children, unaware of the consequences, obey their parents’ instructions, oblivious to the long-term impact on their education and overall development.Adding to the complexity of the situation, some children.
For instance, 8-year-old Amina, a resident of Sango, has never set foot in a classroom. She spends her days begging on the streets, her parents believing that this is the only way to secure their daily sustenance.
Similarly, in Ifo, 6-year-old Aliyu’s parents have instructed him to beg instead of attending school. Aliyu’s parents, both unemployed, believe that the meager earnings he brings home from begging are essential for their survival.
Consequently, Aliyu’s dreams of receiving an education are shattered, leaving him trapped in a cycle of poverty.
The prevalence of child begging in these areas not only affects the individual children but also has broader implications for society.
The lack of education perpetuates a cycle of poverty, limiting these children’s future prospects and contributing to the overall socioeconomic disparity in the community. Without access to education, these children are more likely to face unemployment, engage in criminal activities, and struggle to break free from the cycle of poverty.
Increase in school dropout rates threatens Nigeria’s Future
In the same vein, the rate of school dropout in Nigeria is worsening day by day, posing a significant challenge for the country.
Despite the efforts of the federal government to establish government-owned schools for the less privileged, it seems that students are losing interest in education. Some even go as far as claiming that “school is a scam.”
Instead, internet fraud, commonly known as “Yahoo yahoo,” has become a popular choice for about 60% of Nigerian youths. They are more interested in acquiring exotic cars and mansions at a young age without putting in the necessary effort.
However, as the saying goes, “there is no shortcut to success.”The main cause of the increase in school dropouts lies in the hands of parents and guardians.
It is essential for parents and guardians to prioritize their children’s needs and school fees to prevent them from being expelled.Financial instability often prevents parents from enrolling their children in school.
Some believed that sending their children to primary school is sufficient due to a lack of funds for further education. When parents can no longer provide for their children’s needs or pay their school fees, the children are forced to drop out. In some cases, students may resort to engaging in illicit activities.
Moreover, education should be accessible to all without financial barriers. Unfortunately, some underage children are forced into labor work, which negatively impacts their health due to a lack of proper infrastructure and equipment.
During an interview with one Mr. Temitope Ogunsana, the proprietor of Divine Favour International School, he highlighted that the government, parents, teachers, and peer groups are primarily responsible for the surge in school dropouts in the country.
READ ALSO: Tuition hike: 50% of students may drop out in two years – ASUU
According to him, “the government is responsible for 75% of the problem as they have failed to provide adequate job opportunities for the youth. This has led to an increase in school dropouts as parents are unable to provide for their children’s education due to a lack of employment.
“As a result, many Nigerian youths turn to internet fraud as they see it as an easy way to make money.He believes that while it may be difficult to completely eradicate the issue, steps can be taken to reduce it.
READ ALSO: Fee hike may force 50% of students to drop out of school in 2 years —- ASUU
“However, some Nigerian youths are no longer interested in white-collar jobs and have given up on education altogether.”
He also pointed out that parents are partly to blame as some support and provide equipment for their children to engage in fraudulent activities.
The sight of young children begging on the streets of Iyana-Ipaja, Sango, Ifo, Agege, and other areas is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by marginalized communities. The forced involvement of children in begging, whether due to parental influence or fabricated narratives, denies them the fundamental right to education.
It is imperative that local authorities, NGOs, and concerned citizens come together to address this issue, providing support systems and opportunities for these children to break free from the cycle of poverty and secure a brighter future through education.
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