EXAMINING THE EFFECT OF EDUCATION POLICY AND SOCIAL INEQUALITIES ON SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENT: A CASE STUDY OF AKOKO SOUTHWEST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA IN ONDO STATE.

This study investigates the impact of education policy and social inequality on secondary school students in Akoko South-West Local Government Area of Ondo State. Although education policies are intended to foster equal opportunities, the findings reveal that poor implementation, inadequate resources, and weak institutional support have instead widened the gap of social inequalities among students. Adopting a descriptive survey design, the research engaged 120 respondents. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed to assess the influence of government policies and social disparities on students’ learning experiences and academic performance. Teachers further highlighted issues such as inadequate funding, policy inconsistency, and insufficient support as major obstacles to effective education delivery. The study concludes that social inequality continues to undermine the objectives of education policy within the area. It recommends stronger policy implementation mechanisms, equitable resource allocation, the provision of scholarships, and infrastructural improvements as critical steps toward bridging the gap and ensuring quality education for all students.