Background of the Study
Continuing education has emerged as a critical tool for addressing social vices among youths, particularly the prevalence of gambling, which poses significant economic and social risks. In Minna, continuing education programs have been strategically developed to engage youths and provide alternative avenues for personal and professional development, thereby reducing the lure of gambling (Chukwu, 2023). These programs integrate life skills, financial literacy, and vocational training into their curricula, aiming to offer youths sustainable opportunities that counteract the temptations of gambling. The conceptual framework underpinning these initiatives is that continuous learning fosters resilience, self-awareness, and better decision-making skills, all of which are instrumental in curbing risky behaviors (Ibrahim, 2024).
Minna has witnessed a surge in youth gambling, which is often exacerbated by socio-economic challenges such as unemployment, peer pressure, and limited recreational opportunities. Continuing education serves as a proactive intervention by equipping youths with the skills necessary to secure employment and manage personal finances effectively. Despite these promising interventions, challenges persist in reaching the most vulnerable segments of the youth population, who may be entrenched in environments that promote gambling as a quick source of income (Udo, 2025). Moreover, the effectiveness of these programs is contingent upon the quality of curriculum design, the availability of trained educators, and the level of community engagement. As recent studies suggest, when continuing education is tailored to address the specific challenges faced by youths, it can significantly reduce the prevalence of gambling and associated negative outcomes (Oluwatobi, 2023). Nonetheless, persistent cultural and economic factors continue to pose barriers, necessitating further exploration of strategies to enhance the impact of continuing education on youth behavior.
Statement of the Problem
Gambling among youths in Minna has reached concerning levels, posing risks to their financial stability, social relationships, and overall well-being. Despite the introduction of continuing education programs designed to offer alternative prospects, the prevalence of gambling remains high. This situation is largely attributable to a gap between the educational content provided and the underlying socio-economic drivers of gambling behavior (Adesina, 2023). Many youths, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, continue to view gambling as a viable means to achieve quick financial gains, undermining the potential benefits of continuing education initiatives. The curricula often fail to address the root causes of gambling addiction, such as unemployment, lack of recreational facilities, and poor financial management skills. Furthermore, the sporadic nature of program delivery and inadequate follow-up support contribute to the limited effectiveness of these interventions (Ekwu, 2024).
Another critical issue is the societal normalization of gambling, which, coupled with inadequate parental and community guidance, further entrenches this behavior among youths. The disconnect between theoretical learning and practical application means that even when youths participate in continuing education, they struggle to implement the acquired skills in ways that mitigate gambling behavior. This study, therefore, seeks to identify the specific gaps in current continuing education programs and propose comprehensive strategies to enhance their effectiveness. By addressing these challenges, the study aims to reduce the prevalence of gambling among youths, thereby contributing to improved social and economic outcomes in Minna (Fadare, 2025).
Objectives of the Study
To evaluate the impact of continuing education on reducing youth gambling in Minna.
To identify the key factors that sustain gambling behavior among youths.
To propose integrated strategies to enhance the effectiveness of continuing education programs in curbing gambling.
Research Questions
How effective are continuing education programs in reducing the prevalence of youth gambling in Minna?
What are the primary socio-economic factors that contribute to youth gambling?
What strategies can improve the practical application of continuing education to address gambling behavior?
Research Hypotheses
Participation in continuing education is inversely correlated with the prevalence of gambling among youths.
Socio-economic disadvantages significantly contribute to the persistence of gambling behavior.
Enhanced curriculum design that includes life and financial skills reduces the likelihood of gambling.
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it provides insights into how continuing education can mitigate youth gambling by offering viable alternatives and fostering responsible decision-making. The findings will inform policy and program improvements aimed at reducing the social and economic impact of gambling in Minna (Balogun, 2024).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is limited to evaluating the effectiveness of continuing education programs in reducing youth gambling within Minna Local Government Area, Niger State. It does not extend to other regions or related behavioral issues.
Definitions of Terms
Continuing Education: Ongoing learning programs aimed at enhancing personal and professional skills beyond formal education.
Gambling: The act of wagering money or valuables on an uncertain outcome, often leading to addictive behaviors.
Youth: Individuals typically ranging from adolescence to early adulthood who are in the process of transitioning into the workforce.
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