Background of the Study
Orphans in many parts of Nigeria face significant socio-economic challenges that impede their ability to achieve economic independence. In Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State, adult literacy programs have emerged as a crucial intervention aimed at breaking the cycle of poverty among orphans. These programs are designed to equip orphans with essential reading, writing, and numeracy skills, thereby enhancing their capacity to secure employment or engage in entrepreneurial activities (Yusuf, 2023). The focus of these literacy programs is not merely on basic education but also on imparting practical skills that are directly applicable to economic activities. By integrating vocational training and life skills into the curriculum, these initiatives help orphans develop self-reliance and foster a sense of empowerment (Suleiman, 2024). Research has shown that improved literacy levels can lead to increased economic opportunities and a higher quality of life, as individuals become more competitive in the job market (Dikko, 2025). The socio-cultural context in Gombe further underscores the need for such programs, as traditional support systems for orphans have diminished due to urbanization and changing family dynamics. Adult literacy programs provide a lifeline for these vulnerable individuals by offering a structured environment where they can learn and grow, both intellectually and economically. Moreover, these programs often serve as a bridge to further educational opportunities and vocational training, thereby facilitating a gradual transition from dependency to economic independence. The long-term impact of these initiatives is seen in the improved self-esteem and social integration of program participants, who are better prepared to contribute to their communities. In this light, adult literacy programs represent a transformative approach to addressing the systemic challenges faced by orphans, making them a critical area of focus for policymakers and educators alike (Yusuf, 2023; Suleiman, 2024).
Statement of the Problem
Orphans in Gombe face persistent challenges related to low literacy levels, which significantly impede their ability to achieve economic independence. The lack of effective adult literacy programs tailored to the unique needs of orphans contributes to a cycle of poverty and social exclusion (Dikko, 2025). Despite existing efforts by governmental and non-governmental organizations, many of these programs fail to address the specific barriers that orphans encounter, such as emotional trauma, lack of continuous support, and limited access to resources. Consequently, orphans are often left without the necessary skills to secure employment or engage in income-generating activities, leading to long-term economic dependency. This gap in educational provision not only perpetuates poverty but also hinders the overall social development of the community. Moreover, the absence of targeted interventions that focus on both literacy and vocational skills results in an underutilization of the potential benefits of adult education. This study seeks to investigate how adult literacy programs can be redesigned and improved to promote economic independence among orphans in Gombe, thereby addressing a critical gap in current social development strategies (Yusuf, 2023; Suleiman, 2024).
Objectives of the Study
To evaluate the effectiveness of adult literacy programs in fostering economic independence among orphans in Gombe.
To identify the barriers that limit the success of existing literacy programs for orphans.
To propose improvements to adult literacy programs that can enhance the economic opportunities for orphans.
Research Questions
How do adult literacy programs influence the economic independence of orphans in Gombe?
What are the primary challenges faced by orphans in accessing and benefiting from adult literacy programs?
How can adult literacy programs be improved to better support the economic empowerment of orphans?
Research Hypotheses
H₁: Participation in adult literacy programs is positively associated with increased economic independence among orphans.
H₂: Barriers in current literacy programs significantly hinder the economic empowerment of orphans.
H₃: Tailored improvements in adult literacy programs will lead to enhanced economic opportunities for orphans in Gombe.
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it highlights the role of adult literacy programs in empowering orphans economically. The insights provided will assist stakeholders in designing targeted interventions that foster self-reliance and reduce poverty among vulnerable populations (Yusuf, 2023; Suleiman, 2024).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study is limited to examining the influence of adult literacy programs on economic independence among orphans in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State. It focuses exclusively on literacy initiatives and does not encompass other support programs.
Definitions of Terms
Adult Literacy Programs: Educational initiatives aimed at improving reading, writing, and numeracy skills among adults.
Economic Independence: The ability of an individual to support themselves financially without reliance on external aid.
Orphans: Individuals who have lost one or both parents and are particularly vulnerable to socio-economic disadvantages.
Abstract
This study was carried out on cross ventilation in public building in Jos metropolis. It was the aim of the stu...
ABSTRACT
This research study was aimed at identifying the impact of Computer Based Instruction on the...
1.1 Background of the Study
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY Education is a key factor for sustainable development (Chimombo, 2005). The significance...
Background of the Study
Background of the Study Mentoring programs have emerged as a vital tool for fostering employee career growth and develop...
OBJECTIVE OF THIS STUDY: The objective of this study is to ascertain the microbial safety of commercial poultry feeds pr...
Background of the study
Background of the Study Law enforcement officers play a crucial role in maintaining public order and en...
Abstract Instructing library users on effective utilization of information resources and services could not be over emphasized in tertiar...
STUDENTS’ ACCESS TO E-LEARNING RESOURCES AND THEIR ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT
An appraisal of cultural diplomacy in enhancing national image abroad: A study of the Confucius Institutes in Rivers State
Cultural diplomacy has emerged as a strategic tool for enhancing a nation’s global image and...
An Evaluation of the Impact of Mentoring Programs on Employee Career Growth: A Study of UBA Plc in Kwara State
BACTERIA CONTAMINANTS ASSOCIATED WITH POULTRY FEEDS FROM THREE DIFFERENT COMPANIES
An Appraisal of Code-Switching Practices in Nigerian Digital Communication: A Comparative Study of WhatsApp and Facebook
Codeswitching is a prevalent linguistic strategy in Nigeria, particularly in digi...
An Appraisal of Stress Management Strategies Among Law Enforcement Officers in Gombe State
EFFECTS OF LIBRARY INSTRUCTIONS ON THE USE OF INFORMATION RETRIEVAL TOOLS BY STUDENTS IN POLYTECHNIC LIBRARIES