Girl Child Education: A comprehsive overview of the importance, challenges, strategies

First and formeost, education is widely acknowledged as a fundamental human right and a critical factor in the development of any society. In Nigeria, however, this right remains elusive for many, particularly for the girl child. Despite various efforts by the government, non-governmental organisations, and international bodies, the education of the girl child in Nigeria continues to face significant challenges. According to UNICEF estimates, around the world, 122 million girls are out of school globally. These challenges are rooted in cultural norms, socio-economic barriers, and inadequate policy implementation, among others.

The importance of educating the girl child cannot be overstated. Educating girls not only empowers them but also has a multiplier effect on the broader society. It leads to improved family health, economic growth, and reduced poverty rates. In fact, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has noted that for every additional year of schooling a girl receives, her potential income increases by up to 20%. Despite these benefits, Nigeria still has one of the highest numbers of out-of-school children in the world, with girls constituting a significant proportion.

Educating girls is one of the most effective ways to empower them economically. An educated girl is more likely to secure better employment opportunities, earn a higher income, and contribute significantly to the economy. According to the World Bank, every additional year of secondary schooling for girls can increase their future earnings by 10 to 20%. This economic empowerment also has a ripple effect, as educated women are more likely to invest in their children’s education, thereby breaking the cycle of poverty.

Education is a powerful tool in reducing gender inequality. By providing girls with the same educational opportunities as boys, societies can move closer to achieving gender equality. Educated girls are more likely to challenge traditional gender roles and advocate for their rights, leading to a more equitable society. Furthermore, gender equality in education promotes social cohesion and stability, which are essential for national development. Also, education plays a crucial role in improving health outcomes for women and their families. Educated girls are more likely to marry later, have fewer children, and access better healthcare for themselves and their children. A study by UNICEF shows that a child born to a mother who can read is 50% more likely to survive past the age of five. Moreover, educated women are better equipped to make informed decisions about their health, leading to lower rates of maternal and infant mortality.

Educating girls has significant social and cultural benefits. It fosters greater social participation, as educated women are more likely to engage in community activities and leadership roles. Education also helps girls develop critical thinking skills and gain confidence, enabling them to make informed decisions and contribute positively to society. Additionally, when girls are educated, they are more likely to raise educated children, perpetuating a culture of learning and progress.

Cultural and religious beliefs are among the most significant barriers to girl child education in Nigeria. In many communities, traditional gender roles dictate that girls should focus on domestic responsibilities rather than pursue education. Early marriage is also prevalent, with girls being married off at a young age, often before they complete their secondary education. According to a report by World Bank, 42.1% of girls in Nigeria are married before the age of 18. This practice not only deprives girls of their right to education but also exposes them to risks such as early pregnancy and domestic violence.

Poverty is another major obstacle to girl child education in Nigeria. Many families, particularly in rural areas, cannot afford to send all their children to school, and when they must choose, they often prioritise the education of boys over girls. Additionally, the cost of education, including school fees, uniforms, and learning materials, can be prohibitive for low-income families. As a result, many girls are forced to drop out of school to contribute to the household income through child labour or other means.

In addition, the lack of adequate infrastructure in schools is a significant challenge to girl child education in Nigeria. Many schools, especially in rural areas, lack basic facilities such as clean water, toilets, and safe classrooms. This lack of infrastructure disproportionately affects girls, as the absence of separate toilets can discourage them from attending school, particularly during menstruation. Additionally, long distances to school can pose a safety risk for girls, leading to higher dropout rates.

Insecurity, particularly in the northern regions of Nigeria, poses a significant threat to girl child education. The Boko Haram insurgency, which specifically targets schools and advocates against Western education, has led to the closure of many schools and displaced thousands of students. The abduction of schoolgirls, such as the infamous Chibok girls in 2014, has instilled fear in families, leading many to keep their daughters out of school, especially in the North. The ongoing conflict has resulted in a significant disruption of education in the affected areas, with girls being the most vulnerable.

To improve girl child education in Nigeria, it is essential to change cultural and religious attitudes that devalue the education of girls. Community awareness and sensitisation programmes should be implemented to educate parents, religious leaders, and community members about the importance of educating girls. These programmes should highlight the economic, social, and health benefits of girl child education and challenge harmful practices such as early marriage. Engaging community leaders and influencers in these efforts can help shift societal norms and create a more supportive environment for girls’ education. Although several NGOs are ensuring that people are sensitised, but more work needs to be done.

Providing financial support and incentives to families can help alleviate the economic barriers to girl child education. Scholarships, grants, and conditional cash transfers can be used to encourage families to send their daughters to school. There are lots of brilliant female children whose parents can’t afford their education, therefore, providing free or subsidised education, including school uniforms and learning materials, can reduce the financial burden on families. Incentives such as school feeding programmes can also attract and retain girls in school, particularly in low-income communities.

Investing in school infrastructure is critical to creating a conducive learning environment for girls. Schools should be equipped with separate toilets for girls, clean water, and safe classrooms. Additionally, providing transportation or building schools closer to communities can reduce the distance girls must travel, improving their safety and attendance rates. Ensuring that schools are safe spaces, free from violence and harassment, is also essential for encouraging girls to stay in school.

Encouraging more women to become teachers and take on leadership roles in education can inspire and motivate girls to pursue their education. Mentorship programmes that connect girls with female role models in various fields can also provide the guidance and support they need to succeed. Additionally, showcasing the achievements of successful women in the media and community events can help challenge gender stereotypes and encourage girls to aspire to leadership positions.

Nigeria has several laws and policies that support girl child education, such as the Universal Basic Education Act and the Child Rights Act. However, the implementation and enforcement of these laws remain weak in many areas. The government should strengthen its efforts to enforce existing laws that mandate free and compulsory education for all children, including girls. Additionally, policies that address early marriage, child labour, and gender-based violence should be implemented effectively to create a safe and supportive environment for girls’ education.

Improving girl child education requires the collaboration of various stakeholders, including the government, non-governmental organisations, parents, the private sector, and international bodies. The journey to achieving universal girl child education in Nigeria is long, but with sustained commitment and concerted efforts, it is attainable. Although new data drawing from the UNESCO Institute for Statistics shows that “there are 22.5 million more girls in primary school, 14.6 million more in lower secondary and 13 million in upper secondary education now than in 2015 globally”. However, while significant progress has been made in recent years, much work remains to be done to ensure that every girl in Nigeria has access to quality education. Investing in girls’ education transforms communities, countries and the entire world.