Volume 15
COMBATING THE CHALLENGES OF RURAL ILLITERACY IN NIGERIA THROUGH ADOPTION OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION POLICY
ANIMASHAUN, Odunola Elizabeth, OMOTUNDE, Olubunmi Elizabeth & BUSARI, Medinat Folashade
Abstract
Rural illiteracy remains an unabated challenge in Nigeria. There have been long-standing disparities in
educational access between urban and rural areas. Despite various reforms, rural communities continue to face significant challenges, ranging from poor policy implementation to inadequate infrastructure, as well as limited early learning opportunities. This paper argues that Early Childhood Education (ECE) holds
transformative potential in addressing these foundational gaps. The paper identifies key stumbling blocks that may hinder ECE implementation, such as inadequate funding, low parental awareness, weak policy
enforcement and poor infrastructure. Nevertheless, it posits that with increased government commitment,
Context-specific policy and community-based support, ECE can play a key role in abating educational gaps, especially between the rural and urban areas in Nigeria. The paper therefore advocates for inclusive, context-sensitive policies and increased investment in rural ECE programs.
Keywords
Illiteracy, Rural literacy, Early Childhood Education, context-specic policy
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