Influence of Gender Discrimination on Girl Child Education in Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria
Abstract:This study aims to investigate the prevalence of gender discrimination and its impact on girl child education in Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria. The objectives of the study are to assess the level of awareness of gender discrimination in Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun State, to identify societal beliefs influencing girl child education, to explore factors hindering girl child participation in education, and to examine the effects of gender discrimination on societal development. The study utilized a descriptive survey method with a sample size of 120 respondents, including both male and female teachers from 10 schools in Odogbolu. A researcher-designed questionnaire with a validity index of 0.86 was employed for data collection. Data analysis was conducted using mean and standard deviation. The study revealed an alarming level of awareness regarding gender discrimination in Odogbolu, with a majority of girls being treated as inferior. Significant relationships between societal beliefs and girl child education were identified. Discrimination against the girl child was found to be more prevalent in rural areas. Factors such as early marriage, cultural issues, domestic violence, teenage pregnancy, and religious bias were identified as hindrances to girl child education. The effects of gender discrimination on societal development include dropout rates, mental health issues, inadequate female representation, poor academic performance among teachers, and limited access to education for girls. The major recommendations are to implement awareness programs to address gender discrimination, enforce policies to protect the rights of girl children, provide support systems for girls facing societal barriers, and promote community involvement in advocating for girl child education.
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