EFFECTS OF POVERTY AND INEQUALITY ON ACCESS TO QUALITY EDUCATION IN AKOKO NORTH EAST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ONDO STATE NIGERIA

This study examines the effects of poverty on access to quality education in Ikare Akoko, Ondo State. Poverty is a pervasive issue that affects millions of people worldwide, and its impact on education is particularly devastating. In Ikare Akoko, poverty limits access to quality education, perpetuating a cycle of disadvantage and inequality. This study investigates the relationship between poverty and educational outcomes, highlighting the challenges faced by students from low-income backgrounds. The research therefore, aims to evaluate how poverty affect the academic performance level of secondary school student, find out what the students do when they are running out of cash and ascertain various ways Federal Government or international organization has helped in reducing poverty and improving the state of education of the poor. By understanding the effects of poverty on education, policymakers and stakeholders can develop targeted solutions to promote educational equity and improve outcomes for disadvantaged students in Ikare Akoko and beyond. The study employed a descriptive survey design, it used a sample of 200 participants which comprise of teachers and students, selected through simple random sampling. Data collection was carried out through structured questionnaire. The data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics, including frequency counts and percentages. Findings revealed that how poverty affect the academic performance level of secondary school student in Akoko North East Local Government Area of Ondo State Nigeria was low ( G = 2.49), what secondary school students in Akoko North East Local Government Area of Ondo State do when they are running out of cash was moderate ( G = 2.50), the areas federal government or international organization has helped in reducing poverty and improving the state of education of the poor in Akoko North East Local Government Area of Ondo State was low ( G = 2.43), the causes of poverty and signs of inequality among secondary school students in Akoko North East Local Government Area of Ondo State was low ( G = 2.46). In light of these findings, the government should increase funding for education in Akoko North East Local Government Area to improve infrastructure, provide adequate resources, and support teachers and students. The government and stakeholders should provide educational resources such as textbooks, computers, and internet access to schools in Akoko North East Local Government Area to enhance the learning experience. The government should provide regular training and support for teachers in Akoko North East Local Government Area to enhance their skills and capacity to deliver quality education. The government and stakeholders should provide scholarships and financial assistance to students from disadvantaged backgrounds in Akoko North East Local Government Area to enable them access quality education. The government and stakeholders should engage with the community in Akoko North East Local Government Area to raise awareness about the importance of education and involve them in decision-making processes.