INFLUENCE OF POVERTY AND ILLITERACY ON STREET KIDS IN UYO METROPOLIS

The issue of street children represents a significant global social andenvironmental challenge, stemming from poverty, inadequate upbringing,neglect, and insufficient welfare for specific groups of children worldwide.This research focused on the influence of poverty and illiteracy on the rise ofstreet children in the Uyo metropolis of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The studyutilized the Social Constructivism theory, as articulated by Lev Vygotsky, asits theoretical framework. A survey research design was employed for thisinvestigation. Conducted in Uyo Metropolis, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, thestudy aimed for a sample size of 150, calculated using Taro Yamane'sformula; however, only 120 questionnaires were successfully collected fordata analysis. The data was analyzed using the Pearson Product MomentCorrelation (PPMC), represented by 'r'. The results indicated that streetchildren exist in a hostile environment, face neglect from the public, oftenlack adequate parental guidance and are particularly vulnerable to severephysical conditions, violence, harassment, exploitation, involvement incriminal activities, and denial of educational opportunities that could leadto improved life circumstances. In light of these findings, the researchersrecommended that the government prioritize the development andexecution of comprehensive social welfare programs aimed at tackling theunderlying causes of child vulnerability. This should encompass initiativesto reduce poverty, enhance access to education and healthcare, provideaffordable housing, and support families in crisis