THE EFFECTS OF HEAD PORTERAGE ON GIRL-CHILD EDUCATION IN THE TAMALE METROPOLITAN AREA OF GHANA

Abstract

This thesis examines the effects of head porterage on children engaged in it. The study uses the qualitative methods to examine how head porterage which has become an economic venture for many affects the education of the girls engaged in it. The research sampled respondants using purposive sampling, snow ball sampling and convenience sampling. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions and migration stories. Major findings in the study revealed that there was a significant difference in enrolment of males and females at the rural community level. Poverty and patriarchy in rural communities were found as significant determinants of enrolment of females in schools and causes to their low retention. The study recommends that, national policies should seek to remove cultural practices that adversely affect the advancement of girls especially in rural communities. The Free Basic Compulsory Universal Education programme should be accompanied by sanctions on parents who allow their wards to engage in head porterage.