Abstract: The phenomenon of
out-of-school children remains one of the major educational challenges
confronting Nigeria and poses significant threats to the country's
socio-economic development. This study examines the prevalence, distribution,
and underlying causes of out-of-school children in Nigeria; assesses the
socio-economic and developmental implications of the phenomenon; and evaluates
existing educational interventions while proposing sustainable strategies for
addressing the challenge. The study adopts a qualitative research approach
based on content analysis of relevant literature, policy documents, and reports
from governmental and non-governmental organizations. Findings reveal that
although the problem affects all regions of Nigeria, the northern region
records the highest concentration of out-of-school children. The major drivers
of the phenomenon include poverty and economic hardship, cultural practices and
religious misconceptions, inadequate educational infrastructure and poor school
performance, insecurity and displacement, and weak political commitment to the
implementation of educational policies and programmes. The analysis further
indicates that the consequences of out-of-school children extend beyond the
affected individuals to their families, communities, and the nation at large,
resulting in high levels of illiteracy, shortage of skilled manpower, unemployment,
social exclusion, and heightened insecurity. The study concludes that reducing
the prevalence of out-of-school children requires sustained commitment from
government, communities, development partners, and other stakeholders. It
recommends effective implementation and monitoring of educational policies and programmes,
including the Universal Basic Education Programme, the Nomadic Education
Programme, and the National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme, alongside
improved funding, enhanced school security, community sensitization, and
expanded opportunities for skills acquisition and alternative learning
pathways.
[
Keywords:
Out-of-School Children, Education, Educational Policy, National Development, Challenges,
Nigerian
DOI: 10.36349/atij.2026.v02i01.014
author/Haruna, A., Mohammed, A., Kagara, L.M., Lawal, M. & Alkali, M.M.
journal/Al-Takamul IJ 2(1) | July 2026 |
