ABSTRACT
This study investigates truancy and its influence on the academic performance of secondary school students in Benin metropolis. Four (4) research questions were raised to guide the study:
The sample size for this study was a total number of Five Hundred and Fifty-Seven (557) respondents within the area of the study. Which represent ten percent (10%) of Five Thousand and Five Hundred and Seventy-Four (5574) students from government senior secondary School selected using a simple random sampling technique. The major instrument used for this study was the questionnaire. The questionnaire was designed and validated by experts in the department of Adult and Non-Formal Education, Faculty of Education University of Benin. Data were analysed using descriptive statistical techniques such as tables, frequencies counts, and simple percentages Findings of the study revealed that the causes of truancy among secondary school students are poor parental care, lack of facilities in schools, poor teaching method and long distance from home to school
It was also revealed that leaving school without permission, being present in school but not in class, engaging in secret affair during class periods, gambling and lackadaisical attitude and lateness to school constitute an act of truancy. It was further revealed that the strategies for curbing truancy among secondary school students are; imposing punishment on truants, improving teacher’s students’ relationship, improvement of school facilities, cooperation of Parents and Teachers Association (PTA), organization. Based on the conclusion drawn from the findings, the following recommendations were proffered. That school authorities should be strict on their rules and regulations especially as it pertains to school attendance of students and truancy It was further recommended that Parents should equip their children and wards with the necessary educational materials to avoid unnecessary excuses form students on why they engaged truant behaviour.
