Impact Of Child Labour On Pupils’ Attendance A Case Of Selected Primary Schools In Lushoto District,Tanzania

ABSTRACT

The study investigated the impact of child labour on pupils’ attendance; in selected primary schools at Lushoto District, Tanga. Specifically, it examined the magnitude of child labour, nature of pupils’ child labour and its effects on school attendance as well as stakeholders’ perceptions on child labour effects on pupils’ attendance. The study employed qualitative research approach with some quantitative elements. Besides the study used cross -section research design. Mainly the study was guided by Exploitation theory. Data were collected from 105 respondents through unstructured and semi-structured interviews, documentary review and focus group discussion. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze data thematically while on the other hand computing frequencies and percentages was done by using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 16.0. Findings of this study revealed that child labour was prevalent among primary school pupils which was literally because of hardships in life and sometimes carelessness nature of pupils’ themselves. The study also revealed that household or domestic works, small scale business and agricultural activities were the most prevalent forms of child labour. On the other hand dropout of school, poor performances, poor attendances and repeating classes were among main effects of child labour which were subsequently perceived by stakeholders as a threat for education goals attainment. Therefore the study discovered that poor parental awareness was a major factor which contributed to child labour. Importantly, the study recommended that Lushoto District council should emphasize on community awareness about importance of education for community development and protecting child rights The council also should work a little harder to reduce the problem of poverty by providing loans among members of the community.