Journal
Metropolitan Journal of Academic Pedagogical Research
MJAPR
Investigating The Effects That Gold Mining Activities Have Brought On Child Education In Uganda Case Study Tiira Mawero Gold Mines In Busia District.
Omudeke Robert Isaac, Kaziro Nicholas
| Journal | Metropolitan Journal of Academic Pedagogical Research (MJAPR) |
| Volume / Issue | Vol. 2, No. 12 |
| Published | 31 December 2023 |
| ISSN | 3006-6425 |
Abstract
In this study, we explored the historical implications of gold mining activities on child education in Uganda, specifically focusing on Tiira Mawero gold mines in Busia District. Utilizing a quantitative research design, we employed simple random and snowball sampling techniques, collecting data through questionnaires with closed and open-ended questions from 140 respondents. The study aimed to identify reasons behind children's involvement in gold mining, analyze the effects of illegal gold mining on children's education, and propose practical ways to reduce children's participation in gold mines. Results indicated that poverty (53.6%) was the primary driver, emphasizing the economic necessity for children to contribute to family income. Lack of education (32.1%), family influence (14.3%), and limited job opportunities (7.1%) were also significant factors influencing children's engagement in gold mining. The correlation analysis revealed a strong negative relationship between illegal gold mining and education (-0.358**), emphasizing the adverse impact on children's educational attainment. The model estimation suggested that 25.7% of variations in children's education could be explained by their participation in illegal gold mining activities. Practical ways to reduce children in gold mines included strengthening law enforcement (57.1%), providing scholarships and education opportunities (46.4%), creating alternative livelihoods (28.6%), and community awareness programs (17.9%). These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions addressing the root causes of child labor in gold mines, particularly the socio-economic challenges faced by families. The negative correlation between illegal gold mining and education raises significant concerns about the potential long-term consequences on the development and well-being of these children, highlighting the profound linkages between poverty, limited educational opportunities, and children's engagement in hazardous labor. To effectively combat child labor in gold mines, integrated socio-economic interventions addressing poverty and limited educational opportunities are crucial. Government agencies, NGOs, and community stakeholders should collaborate to design and implement programs focused on poverty alleviation and economic empowerment. Public awareness campaigns are essential to educate communities about the legal implications of involving children in mining and to encourage reporting of violations.
Keywords
gold mining
academic performance
poverty
school dropouts and early marriages
Cite This Article
Omudeke Robert Isaac & Kaziro Nicholas (2023). Investigating The Effects That Gold Mining Activities Have Brought On Child Education In Uganda Case Study Tiira Mawero Gold Mines In Busia District. Metropolitan Journal of Academic Pedagogical Research, 2(12). https://journals.miu.ac.ug/pages/article.php?article_id=1677
More in This Issue
View full issue →
6
Impacts Of Home Schooling On Child Development: A Case Study Of Rubaga Division Kampala District
Homeschooling and child development
7
Influence of School and Household Factors on the Completion Rate of Students. A Case Study of Buikwe District, Uganda
School Factors
Household factors and Completion rate
8
Investigating aspects that contribute to success rates of female students in Uganda's Buikwe District's
Success rates and Female students
9
Poverty And Its Effects On Students' Education Enrollment In Secondary Schools. A Case Study Of Secondary Schools In Kyalulangira Sub County In Rakai District.
poverty
students
education
enrollment and secondary schools
10
Promotion Strategies And Development Of The Tourism Sector In Uganda; A Case Study Of Uganda Wildlife Education Center, Kampala.
Strategies
Tourism and Development