Background of the Study
Early marriage is a pervasive social challenge in many regions, including Ganye Local Government Area, Adamawa State, where cultural and socio-economic factors contribute to its persistence. Adult education has been identified as a potential tool to mitigate early marriage practices by equipping community members with critical knowledge about the adverse effects of early unions on health, education, and economic opportunities (Bello, 2023). In this context, adult education programs serve as platforms for disseminating information on reproductive health, legal rights, and gender equality, which are essential in reshaping societal norms. The integration of such programs into community development initiatives has shown promise in altering perceptions and behaviors regarding early marriage (Ibrahim, 2024). Recent educational reforms have emphasized the need for curriculum designs that address social issues, including the detrimental impacts of early marriage on individual and community development (Garba, 2025). Furthermore, these programs create safe spaces for dialogue and critical reflection, allowing community members—especially women—to challenge traditional practices that perpetuate early marriage. The empowerment gained through adult education not only enhances individual agency but also encourages collective action toward social change. In Ganye, where early marriage remains deeply entrenched in cultural practices, adult education initiatives provide an alternative narrative that values education, personal development, and delayed marriage. The role of educators and community leaders in advocating for such change is pivotal, as their efforts can bridge the gap between traditional practices and modern socio-economic realities (Umar, 2023). By highlighting the long-term benefits of delaying marriage, such as improved health outcomes and enhanced economic prospects, adult education contributes to a gradual transformation of community attitudes. Additionally, collaborations between government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and educational institutions have strengthened the implementation of targeted programs that directly address early marriage practices. This study, therefore, seeks to examine how adult education can serve as a catalyst for reducing early marriage rates in Ganye, fostering a community environment that supports the empowerment and well-being of its members (Aliyu, 2024; Sule, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Early marriage in Ganye Local Government Area poses significant challenges to the social and economic development of the community. Despite numerous interventions, the practice continues unabated due to deeply rooted cultural norms and limited access to quality education for adults. The lack of targeted adult education programs that address the consequences of early marriage exacerbates the issue, leaving many community members uninformed about the long-term disadvantages associated with early unions (Bawa, 2023). The deficiency in educational outreach not only undermines efforts to delay marriage but also perpetuates cycles of poverty, reduced educational attainment, and poor health outcomes among young girls. Additionally, existing programs often fail to engage key stakeholders such as parents, traditional leaders, and religious figures, who play crucial roles in either supporting or challenging early marriage practices (Oladipo, 2024). The absence of a comprehensive, community-based educational strategy that highlights the socio-economic benefits of delaying marriage further compounds the problem. Without sufficient adult education initiatives, misconceptions about the value of early marriage continue to flourish, thereby impeding progress toward improved community welfare. This study aims to bridge this gap by evaluating the effectiveness of current adult education programs and identifying ways to enhance their impact on reducing early marriage practices. Addressing this issue is critical, as early marriage not only limits personal growth but also hampers broader social and economic development in the region (Chukwu, 2023; Musa, 2025).
Objectives of the Study
To investigate the impact of adult education on reducing early marriage practices in Ganye.
To identify the gaps in existing adult education programs addressing early marriage.
To develop recommendations for enhancing adult education interventions to curb early marriage.
Research Questions
How does adult education influence community perceptions regarding early marriage in Ganye?
What are the challenges hindering effective adult education programs on early marriage?
How can adult education programs be improved to significantly reduce early marriage practices?
Research Hypotheses
H₁: There is a significant inverse relationship between participation in adult education programs and the prevalence of early marriage practices.
H₂: Inadequate adult education contributes to the continuation of early marriage practices in the community.
H₃: Enhanced adult education programs will lead to a measurable reduction in early marriage rates in Ganye.
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it addresses the critical role of adult education in challenging and reducing early marriage practices. By providing empirical insights and actionable recommendations, the research supports community leaders, educators, and policymakers in fostering social change and improving developmental outcomes in Ganye (Bello, 2023; Ibrahim, 2024).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study is limited to examining the influence of adult education on reducing early marriage practices in Ganye Local Government Area, Adamawa State. It focuses specifically on educational interventions related to early marriage and does not extend to other social issues.
Definitions of Terms
Adult Education: Programs designed to provide lifelong learning opportunities to adults, emphasizing social and practical skills.
Early Marriage: The formal or informal union of individuals, typically before reaching the age of 18, often resulting in negative social and health outcomes.
Community Empowerment: The process of enabling individuals and groups to gain control over their lives and make informed decisions.
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