The Impact of Constitutional Law on Eradicating School Dropout Rates: A Case Study of Makurdi Local Government Area, Benue State

The Impact of Constitutional Law on Eradicating School Dropout Rates: A Case Study of Makurdi Local Government Area, Benue State

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Background of the Study

Education is a fundamental human right protected under the 1999 Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees free and compulsory basic education. Despite this, Nigeria faces a high school dropout rate, particularly in rural areas such as Makurdi Local Government Area, Benue State. Factors such as poverty, child labor, gender discrimination, and inadequate educational infrastructure contribute to the rising dropout rates (Adebayo & Nwankwo, 2024). Although constitutional law mandates compulsory education, the lack of enforcement mechanisms, funding, and monitoring weakens its impact on reducing dropout rates (Okonkwo, 2023).

This study examines how constitutional law influences school dropout rates in Makurdi LGA, assessing the effectiveness of legal frameworks in ensuring education retention and proposing strategies to strengthen education laws and policies.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite the constitutional provisions for free and compulsory education, many children in Makurdi LGA drop out due to socio-economic challenges, inadequate school infrastructure, and poor enforcement of education policies. This study investigates the extent to which constitutional law effectively addresses school dropout rates and proposes solutions for improving education accessibility.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To examine the impact of constitutional law on school dropout rates in Makurdi LGA.

2. To identify challenges hindering educational retention in Makurdi LGA.

3. To propose policy reforms for improving school completion rates.

1.4 Research Questions

1. How does constitutional law impact school dropout rates in Makurdi LGA?

2. What challenges contribute to high dropout rates despite constitutional provisions?

3. What policy reforms can improve education retention in Makurdi LGA?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

1. H₀: Constitutional law does not significantly reduce school dropout rates in Makurdi LGA.

2. H₁: Economic and social factors contribute to school dropouts despite constitutional guarantees.

3. H₂: Strengthening education laws and policies will enhance school retention in Makurdi LGA.

1.6 Significance of the Study

The study is essential in evaluating how constitutional law addresses educational challenges in Makurdi LGA. It provides policy recommendations for improving education accessibility and retention, benefiting policymakers, educators, and stakeholders.

1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study

This study is limited to Makurdi Local Government Area, Benue State, focusing on school dropout rates and constitutional provisions related to education.

1.8 Operational Definition of Terms

1. Dropout Rate: The percentage of students who discontinue schooling before completing an academic level.

2. Compulsory Education: The legal requirement for children to attend school up to a certain age.

3. Education Retention: Policies and mechanisms that ensure students complete their education.

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