Background of the study
Human rights awareness is fundamental to the establishment of just and equitable societies. In Lokoja Local Government Area, Kogi State, adult education initiatives have been deployed to enhance the understanding and appreciation of human rights among citizens. These programs are structured to provide learners with a comprehensive overview of basic human rights, legal frameworks, and civic responsibilities, aiming to empower individuals to advocate for their own rights and the rights of others (Okechukwu, 2023). By integrating human rights education into adult learning curricula, these programs serve as catalysts for social change, fostering a culture of accountability, respect, and social justice. The educational interventions are designed to challenge traditional perceptions of authority and to encourage critical thinking regarding state and societal obligations. Recent evidence indicates that communities with higher levels of human rights awareness are more likely to demand accountability from public officials and engage in democratic processes (Okafor, 2024). In Lokoja, these initiatives are particularly significant given historical and ongoing challenges related to governance and human rights abuses. Through interactive learning methods, including seminars, workshops, and participatory discussions, adult education programs are facilitating a deeper understanding of individual rights and legal recourse mechanisms. Moreover, the collaborative approach adopted in these programs has enabled participants to develop advocacy skills and to mobilize community actions aimed at addressing human rights violations. As human rights remain a contentious issue in many parts of Nigeria, the role of adult education in promoting awareness and accountability is both timely and critical. This study seeks to investigate the extent to which adult education influences human rights awareness in Lokoja, contributing to the broader discourse on civic education and empowerment (Okechukwu, 2023; Okafor, 2024).
Statement of the problem
Despite the implementation of adult education programs targeting human rights awareness in Lokoja, persistent gaps remain in achieving a fully informed and engaged citizenry. Many community members continue to exhibit limited knowledge of their rights, a situation exacerbated by historical marginalization and insufficient educational outreach (Okechukwu, 2023). The existing programs often face challenges such as inadequate resource allocation, low participation rates, and a lack of contextually relevant content. Consequently, the intended outcomes—enhanced human rights awareness and proactive civic engagement—have not been fully realized. Additionally, there is a disconnect between the theoretical aspects of human rights taught in these programs and their practical application in everyday life. Many participants express difficulty in translating learned concepts into actions that challenge rights violations, which in turn perpetuates a cycle of silence and inaction (Okafor, 2024). Furthermore, external socio-political factors, including governmental suppression and cultural resistance, further hinder the effective dissemination of human rights education. These issues underscore the need for a comprehensive evaluation of the educational strategies employed and an examination of the barriers to effective learning. Without addressing these obstacles, the potential of adult education to empower individuals and transform societal attitudes toward human rights remains severely limited. It is, therefore, imperative to investigate the factors that compromise the efficacy of these programs and to explore innovative approaches that can bridge the gap between awareness and action (Okechukwu, 2023; Okafor, 2024).
Objectives of the study
To assess the impact of adult education programs on enhancing human rights awareness in Lokoja.
To identify challenges in the current human rights education curriculum.
To propose strategies for improving the practical application of human rights knowledge.
Research questions
How effective are adult education programs in improving human rights awareness in Lokoja?
What challenges hinder the translation of human rights education into active civic engagement?
What strategies can enhance the impact of human rights education programs?
Research Hypotheses
Adult education programs significantly increase human rights awareness among participants.
Inadequate curriculum content is a major barrier to effective human rights education.
Community engagement initiatives enhance the practical application of human rights knowledge.
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it provides insights into how adult education can enhance human rights awareness, thereby promoting a culture of accountability and empowerment. The findings will inform policy adjustments and program improvements in Lokoja, contributing to strengthened civic participation (Okechukwu, 2023; Okafor, 2024).
Scope and limitations of the study
The study is limited to evaluating the impact of adult education on human rights awareness in Lokoja Local Government Area, focusing solely on the programs implemented and their outcomes.
Definitions of terms
Human Rights Awareness – The knowledge and understanding of basic rights and freedoms inherent to all individuals.
Adult Education – Programs aimed at improving the skills and knowledge of adults.
Civic Engagement – Active participation in activities aimed at influencing public policy and social change.
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Chapter One: Introduction
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