By Omolola Dede Adeyanju
In commemoration of Children’s Day, May 27th, several players in the children development business have voiced their displeasure at the increasing rate of children’s rights violations in the country.
Barrister for Children’s right and Social Development Advocate, Barr. Olamide Akin Alabi in respect to children’s rights, said, “There are several violations, to children’s rights in Nigeria, such as child marriage, and others, but one of the most violated children’s rights in Nigeria is the right to education.”
“Many children are deprived of access to quality education due to factors such as poverty, cultural practices, inadequate infrastructure, and political instability. Every child deserves access to quality education and the opportunity to develop the skills necessary to succeed in today’s rapidly changing global economic landscape.”
Olamide noted the reasons as Economic Barriers which cut across the High levels of poverty in the country as many families cannot afford school fees, uniforms, or other educational expenses.
“Families are prioritising basic needs such as food, shelter, clothing over education which is very understandable; Cultural Practices also considering that in some regions, cultural norms prioritise child labour or early marriage over education, especially for girls,” she said.
Lastly, the Barrister pinpointed insecurity, noting the ongoing conflict and violence, particularly in the northern regions which disrupt schooling and make it unsafe for children to attend.
To the reasons stated, Olamide proffered solutions as Legislative Reforms, depicting that the government should enact strengthening and enforcing laws that guarantee free and compulsory education for all children. Economic Support Programs which oversees the implementation of social safety nets and financial support programs for families to reduce the economic burden of schooling.
She added, “Community and Cultural Interventions, that is, engaging with local communities to shift cultural perceptions about the importance of education. Security Measures, that is, enhancing security around schools and in conflict-prone areas to ensure a safe learning environment.
“Monitoring and Accountability, that is, establishing transparent mechanisms to ensure that educational funds are used appropriately and reach the intended beneficiaries.”
She submitted, “UNICEF is collaborating with the Universal Basic Education Commission to develop the ‘National Framework of Action to Reduce the Number of Out-of-School Children in Nigeria” and the “Retention, Transition, and Completion Model.’ These initiatives are aimed at tackling the root causes of educational deprivation and ensuring that every child in Nigeria has the opportunity to receive a quality education.”
Addressing the out-of-school children crisis in Nigeria which rose to over 18 million according to UNICEF Nigeria. She enumerated that the issue is multifaceted, involving economic, social, and infrastructural factors.
“Africa is projected to have the largest working population in the near future. However, the quality of this human resource is crucial. One way to enhance this human resource is through education. Hence, the out-of-school children crisis is a significant challenge. To address and potentially eradicate this challenge, several strategies could be implemented:
“Increase Funding for Education: Ensuring adequate funding for schools, particularly for teacher training, especially in underserved areas, can improve the quality of education and make it more accessible; Improve School Infrastructure: Building and maintaining adequate educational facilities, providing learning materials, and ensuring a safe learning environment are crucial; Teacher Training and Support: Investing in the professional development of teachers can enhance the quality of education and make learning more engaging for students.”
Also, Awareness Campaigns: Raising awareness about the importance of education and the long-term benefits of staying in school can change community attitudes and prioritise education.
In respect to mentorship for children, the Barrister explained, “First, let’s establish that children indeed need mentors, which can be either structured or unstructured mentorship. Since there is no vacuum in mentorship, children are being mentored by someone, even if informally.
“A mentor is someone whom a child can look up to and see what they aspire to become.”
“It is beneficial,” Olamide explained, “to curate mentorship programs because structured mentorship can help children navigate academic challenges, develop social and emotional skills, and build confidence.”
“Additionally, mentors can expose children to career opportunities, foster a sense of belonging, and act as positive role models, especially for those who may lack such figures in their personal lives.”