FACTORS INFLUENCING THE ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF GIRLS IN THE TOLON DISTRICT

Abstract

This study investigated into the factors influencing girls’ academic performance with focus on the Tolon District Assembly in the northern region of Ghana. Parental support on children’s education in the district is poor, Particularly the girl- child. The main objective was to investigate into the factors influencing the academic performance of girls in the Tolon District. The specific objectives for this study identified the causes of poor academic performance of girls in the district, effects of girls’ poor academic performance and possible suggested solutions to the problem. The researcher adopted Survey and Case Study Designs for the study. A combination of both Quantitative and Qualitative research strategies such as questionnaires and interviews were used for data collection. A population consisted; parents, teachers, officers from the district education office and pupils. One hundred and thirty (130) respondents were selected as the sample which was made up of fifty (50) teachers, thirty (30) parents and fifty (50) students. Simple random sampling technique was used in the selection of respondents. Interviews and the use of questionnaires, were used in collecting data. Data collected were analyzed in tables and charts based on research objectives and questions for easy interpretation. The study revealed that the academic performance of girls is influenced by socio cultural and economic factors such as; poverty, illiteracy, school environment, ineffective teaching strategies, the influence of outmoded cultural practices, high birth rate, inadequate female role models among others. The major hindrance of girls’ academic performance is through the failure of parents to encourage and provide adequate care and support for girls in school. According to Stephen et al (1999), many of the girls struggle with poverty and this will eventually affect their participation in decision making later in life. To improve the academic performance of girls, stakeholders including parents, District/ Municipal/ Metropolitan Assemblies, Central government and NGOs should make a commitment to provide incentives and educational programs that will sustain and motivate girls to perform in school. Provision of support for girls should include enough financial care, reduction of their roles in home chores, instituting bursaries and scholarships, establishment of special girls’ schools and provision of books and other stationeries by NGOs and the District/ Municipal/ Metropolitan Assemblies. Above all, parents and the society at large should develop positive attitude towards girls’ education. This will help the girl-child to build up a strong ego and confidence to go through school.