Why is it that more boys than girls go to school in Africa? It says that for every 100 boys there are 83 girls enrolled in school. Why so few?
Some families can't afford to send all of their children to school. They also may feel that since the girls are going to get married, have children, and keep house, that educating them is not important.
I never thought of it that way! Thanks
The gender disparity in school enrollment in Africa, where fewer girls than boys attend school, can be attributed to several factors:
1. Cultural norms and traditions: In some African societies, traditional gender roles prioritize boys' education over girls'. Girls are often expected to prioritize household chores, marriage, and child-rearing, limiting their access to education.
2. Early marriage and teenage pregnancy: Early marriage and teenage pregnancy often result in girls dropping out of school. Societal norms and economic pressures may lead families to prioritize marriage over education for girls.
3. Lack of access to educational resources: Many girls in Africa face barriers to education such as long distances to schools, limited transportation options, lack of proper infrastructure, and insufficient resources. These challenges often disproportionately affect girls' enrollment and attendance.
4. Poverty and economic factors: Families living in poverty may struggle to afford school fees, uniforms, textbooks, and other necessary expenses. If resources are limited, families may prioritize investing in their sons' education rather than their daughters'.
5. Gender-based violence and discrimination: Girls in Africa may face various forms of gender-based violence, including sexual harassment, assault, and discrimination, which can deter them from attending school.
Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including promoting gender equality and empowerment, addressing cultural norms and stereotypes, improving access to education, eliminating gender-based violence, and providing economic support to families. NGOs, governments, and international organizations are working towards reducing the gender gap in education in Africa through initiatives focused on addressing these underlying factors.