GENDER VIOLENCE AND IT'S EFFECT ON GIRL CHILD EDUCATION IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS

ABSTRACT

Gender violence remains a pervasive global issue with profound implications for education, particularly for girls. This research investigates the prevalence, impact, and underlying factors of gender violence on girl child education, with a focus on the specific context of Ovia North East,Edo State, Nigeria. Through a mixed-methods approach, including surveys and interviews, data were collected from female students. The findings highlight a concerning prevalence of gender violence among female students in Ovia North East, with significant impacts on girls’ educational experiences, including absenteeism, academic performance, and psychosocial well-being. Socio-cultural norms, economic disparities, and institutional challenges were identified as contributing factors to the perpetuation of gender violence within the community and school environment. This research underscores the urgent need for context-specific interventions and policy reforms to address gender violence effectively and create safer, more inclusive learning environments for all students. By amplifying the voices and experiences of girls in Ovia North East, this study aims to inform evidence-based practices and advocacy efforts to promote gender equality and girls’ education.