The challenges of girl-child education and alternative jobs in Nigeria

Abstract

Real life experiences indicate that the current Global Economic Crisis (GEC) have worsened the state of Nigerian-girl-child. This study examines the effects of GEC on the education of girl-child and engagement in alternative jobs. Data were obtained from 1200 female children between 6–14 years selected on purposive random sampling-technique engaged in hawking from three States in Nigeria. About 20 selected parents went through sessions of in-depth interview. They responded to a semi-structured questionnaire. Findings show that 45 percent recently dropped out of school and engaged hawking to enhance self and family economy, make an average of USD1 gains daily. They hawk in crowded markets, hotels and busy road junctions. There are reported cases of child-sexual abuse for fee. Four percent in paid housework were impregnated resulting in clandestine abortion. An improvement in socio-economic conditions of parents and social protection policy for girl-child are recommended.