The issue of out-of-school children is indeed a significant concern in Kwara State, Nigeria. When children are denied access to education and are not enrolled in schools, it can have serious consequences for both the individuals and society as a whole.
According to NMPI 2022, the number of Kwara out-of-school children from ages 6-15 years, is 220,000 Making up 22% of the population.
A survey by this medium shows that the surge of Almajiri in some parts of the state capital, Ilorin and some rural areas call for serious attention from the government and relevant stakeholders
Just Event Online TV will like to state some reasons why out-of-school children can be considered a time bomb in Kwara state
Lost Opportunities: When children are not educated, they miss out on opportunities for personal development and growth. Education plays a vital role in equipping individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to improve their lives and contribute positively to society. Without education, these children are likely to face limited prospects and struggle to escape the cycle of poverty.
Social and Economic Impact: The presence of a large number of out-of-school children can have long-term negative effects on the social and economic fabric of a community or state. Lack of education can lead to increased unemployment rates, poverty, and dependence on social welfare systems. It also perpetuates inequalities within society, as education is a means of upward social mobility.
Potential for Social Unrest: When a significant portion of the population, particularly young people, are denied access to education, it can create a breeding ground for social unrest. Lack of education can foster frustration, discontent, and a sense of injustice among marginalized groups. This can increase the likelihood of social conflicts and destabilize the overall peace and security of the region.
Underutilization of Human Capital: Education is a crucial investment in human capital. When children are not in school, the state loses out on the potential contributions they could have made in various fields such as healthcare, technology, entrepreneurship, and governance. A lack of educated individuals hampers the overall development and progress of a society. Addressing the issue of out-of-school children requires a multi-faceted approach involving government intervention, community engagement, and collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
Efforts should focus on improving access to quality education, addressing barriers such as poverty, gender inequality, and inadequate infrastructure, and raising awareness about the importance of education. By investing in education and ensuring that all children have the opportunity to learn and grow, we can mitigate the time bomb effect of out-of-school children and pave the way for a brighter future.
