Gender Disparities in Access to Education in Dutsinma: A Comparative Study of Rural and Urban Communities in Dutsinma LGA, Katsina State

Amina Lawal Mashi

doi:10.56201/ijssmr.vol.12no3.2026.pg787.798

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Gender Disparities in Access to Education in Dutsinma: A Comparative Study of Rural and Urban Communities in Dutsinma LGA, Katsina State

Amina Lawal Mashi

Abstract

This study examines gender disparities in access to education between rural and urban communities in Dutsin-Ma of Katsina State. The research adopts a mixed-methods design, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches to provide a comprehensive analysis of the factors influencing educational access among boys and girls. A sample of 384 respondents, including students, parents, and teachers, was selected using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The findings reveal significant gender disparities in access to education, with female students being more disadvantaged than males, particularly in rural areas. The study also shows that urban areas have higher enrollment rates and lower gender gaps compared to rural communities. Key factors influencing these disparities include poverty, early marriage, cultural norms, parental attitudes, and limited access to educational infrastructure. Early marriage and poverty emerged as the most significant barriers to girls’ education. The qualitative findings further reinforce these results, highlighting strong socio- cultural preferences for boys’ education and the persistence of traditional gender roles. The study concludes that gender disparities in access to education are deeply rooted in socio- economic and cultural structures, especially in rural communities. It recommends the enforcement of policies against early marriage, increased investment in rural education, and community sensitization to promote gender equality in education. These measures are essential for improving access to education and achieving sustainable development goals related to gender equality and quality education.

Keywords

Gender disparitiesaccess to educationrural-urban differencesearly marriageKatsina State.

References

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Gender Disparities in Access to Education in Dutsinma: A Comparative Study of Rural and Urban Communities in Dutsinma LGA, Katsina State

Abstract

Keywords

References

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