THE PROBLEM OF ABSENTEEISM IN SELECTED SCHOOLS OF EDO STATE

THE PROBLEM OF ABSENTEEISM IN SELECTED SCHOOLS OF EDO STATE

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

BACKGROUND TO THE STUDY

Most of the problem arising from the poor performance of pupils in schools might be linked to absenteeism. It has been observed that quite a number of students in institution of learning and truants. Herbert (1998) defined absenteeism as a child who absent him/herself without a legitimate cause and without permission of his/her or school authorities. Absenteeism is an act of indiscipline showed by many students in secondary school in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State.

Absenteeism is the practice which children leave home for school. at the end of schools hours they carry their bags and go home in company of their mate in preference that they have returned from school, such bad attitude is hidden from the knowledge of the teacher and principal as well as the parent or the guidance.

The effect of absenteeism in secondary school manifest itself in other Local Government Area of Edo State and most secondary school students lack total commitment and absenteeism neglect of duty are other problems common among them. All these have a way of reiteration, the progress of work and also limit effectiveness and efficiency.

Absenteeism is an act of indiscipline or behavioural disorder. It is a major source of some antisocial vice in Nigerian society which is of great concern or parent’s government and teachers. Sources of these social vices are increased dropout in schools, during abuse among youths and high rate of involvement in cult and so on.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

This study is concerned with the investigation of effect of absenteeism in secondary school in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State.

Absenteeism poses a serious threat to learning in most schools. The school on their part does not seem to be able to cope with the problem. There is a growing tendency for school children to be involved in such bad behaviour as stealing, absenteeism; smoking etc. absenteeism among students in secondary school affects their academic performance.   

RESEARCH QUESTIONS

For the purpose of this research, the following research question have been formulated to the study;

1.  What is the effect of absenteeism on each school students in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State?

2.  Can absenteeism degenerate to truancy among secondary school students in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State?

3.  Can provision for necessary equipment and facilities by the government cause absenteeism among students in secondary schools in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State? 

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

The purpose of the study is to investigate the effect of absenteeism on students in secondary schools in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

This study is expected to be of great benefit to school administrators of Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State to reap the gains and benefit of improved academic performance of their various students and thus enhance the image of their schools.

Secondary, the parents of students will appreciate the implications of children absenteeism in secondary schools. Thirdly, the study will reveal the effect of absenteeism on students educational development with a view of helping the students develop educationally.

Lastly, it is expected to help Oredo Local Government Area in recognizing the fact that the outcome of absenteeism among secondary school students may lead to increased rate of dropout which may invariably result to high rate of youth involvement in crime.     

SCOPE OF THE STUDY

This study is expected to cover some secondary schools in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State. The investigation is limited to the phenomena of the effect of absenteeism among students in the selected schools.

The selected secondary schools are:

1.  Akenzuwa Secondary School, Benin City.

2.  Baptist high School, Benin City

3.  Emotan College, Benin City

4.  Edokpolor Grammar School, Benin City

5.  Eghosa Grammar School, Benin City

6.  Idia college, Benin City

7.  Ihogbe College, Benin City

8.  Institute of Continuing Education (ICE), Benin City.

DEFINITION OF TERMS

Absenteeism: It is the deliberate absence from school of the students without the knowledge of the parents, teachers or school authorities.

Truants: Those students who live home early enough but wonder or go elsewhere instead of going to school are truants.

School Administration: It is the direction pertaining to the entire school affairs.