THE CHALLENGES OF OUT-OF-SCHOOL CHILDREN IN NIGERIA AND WAYS FORWARD

Abstract

Nigeria faces a significant educational crisis, characterised by a high number of out-of-school children (OOSC). This paper explores the multifaceted challenges contributing to this issue, including socio-economic factors, cultural beliefs, infrastructural deficits, and policy shortcomings. By examining these challenges, the paper aims to highlight the urgency of addressing the OOSC crisis in Nigeria to promote sustainable development and social equity. In a rebuttal of a sort, the paper refutes attempts by others to downplay or rationalise the challenges in a scholarly manner with superior and convincing enough arguments. The paper recommends, in strong terms, among others, increased funding for education, focused community awareness programmes, support for vulnerable families, strengthened policy implementation, enhanced teacher training and addressing transportation barriers