AN INVESTIGATION INTO SOCIOECONOMIC AND CULTURAL FACTORS LIMITING ACCESS TO QUALITY BASIC EDUCATION IN JIMETA OUTSKIRT, YOLA NORTH LGA OF ADAMAWA STATE IN NIGERIA

This study examines the socioeconomic and cultural barriers to accessing quality basic education in Jimeta Outskirt, Yola North LGA, Adamawa State, Nigeria. The objectives of the research were to investigate the influence of cultural practices and beliefs on children's education and to assess the impact of family income levels and parental education on educational accessibility. A survey research design was used, employing structured questionnaires to collect data from 320 respondents. Findings revealed that cultural norms such as early marriage and gender biases significantly hinder children's access to education, particularly for girls. Additionally, higher family income and parental education levels were shown to enhance children's educational opportunities. The study concludes that cultural practices and socioeconomic factors remain substantial barriers to education in the community. Recommendations include initiating cultural reorientation programs to address harmful norms, engaging community leaders in advocating for education, and providing economic support to families through scholarships and adult literacy initiatives.