Background of the Study
Child labor remains a significant issue in many parts of Nigeria, particularly in rural areas where access to education and social services is limited. Jigawa State, one of the states in Nigeria with a high incidence of child labor, has seen various social protection programs introduced by both government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) aimed at reducing child labor and improving the welfare of children (Baba & Shehu, 2024). Social protection programs, such as cash transfers, school feeding programs, and educational scholarships, are designed to alleviate poverty and provide children with the necessary support to stay in school rather than work. Despite these efforts, child labor remains pervasive in Jigawa Local Government, often due to the interplay of poverty, cultural practices, and weak enforcement of child protection laws. This study explores the effectiveness of these social protection programs in reducing child labor in Jigawa Local Government and how these policies have impacted the lives of children and families in the region.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Child labor continues to be a major barrier to development in Jigawa Local Government, even with the presence of several social protection programs. While these programs aim to reduce the need for children to work and enhance their access to education, the rates of child labor remain high. Factors such as inadequate funding, cultural norms, and a lack of effective enforcement of policies contribute to the persistence of child labor in the region. This study seeks to evaluate the impact of social protection programs on child labor, aiming to identify the reasons behind the persistence of child labor despite these interventions (Usman & Abdullahi, 2023).
1.3 Objectives of the Study
To assess the effectiveness of social protection programs in reducing child labor in Jigawa Local Government.
To identify the factors that contribute to the persistence of child labor despite the implementation of social protection programs.
To recommend strategies for improving the effectiveness of social protection programs in addressing child labor in Jigawa.
1.4 Research Questions
How effective have social protection programs been in reducing child labor in Jigawa Local Government?
What are the key factors that continue to drive child labor in the region, despite the presence of these programs?
How can social protection programs be improved to more effectively address child labor in Jigawa?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
Social protection programs have significantly reduced the incidence of child labor in Jigawa Local Government.
Cultural factors, poverty, and inadequate policy enforcement continue to contribute to the persistence of child labor in Jigawa.
Enhancing the coverage and quality of social protection programs will further reduce the incidence of child labor in Jigawa.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study will contribute to the body of knowledge on the effectiveness of social protection programs in addressing child labor, particularly in Nigeria’s rural areas. It will offer valuable insights into the challenges that hinder the success of these programs and provide recommendations for policymakers and NGOs to improve the impact of their interventions.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on Jigawa Local Government in Jigawa State, specifically examining the impact of social protection programs aimed at reducing child labor. Limitations include the potential difficulty in obtaining accurate data from children involved in labor, as well as the challenge of isolating the effects of social protection programs from other socio-economic factors.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
Social Protection Programs: Government or NGO-led initiatives designed to reduce poverty and support vulnerable groups, particularly children, through cash transfers, education incentives, or food security programs.
Child Labor: The involvement of children in economic activities that interfere with their education and well-being, often in hazardous conditions.
Educational Scholarships: Financial support provided to children to enable them to attend school without the need to engage in labor.
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