Book

Description

Child labor is the distressing phenomenon where children are compelled to work at a young age, often in physically demanding and exploitative conditions, which hampers their education, social development, and overall well-being. A study was conducted to examine the factors contributing to child labor exploitation and its impact on children's schooling. The research involved 198 child laborers and utilized both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods, including surveys and focus group discussions. The study focused on economically active children aged 5 to 17. Through a mixed research design, combining qualitative and quantitative approaches, data was gathered primarily through questionnaires. The study found that out of the total child workers surveyed, 78% were male and 22% were female. The majority of child workers fell within the 15-17 age group, comprising 59.5% of the respondents, while 40.5% were between 9 and 14 years old. Nearly half of the child workers were orphans. The study also revealed a high illiteracy rate among the fathers (41%) and mothers (73%) of the child workers, with farming being the most common occupation among fathers (44%). The study concluded that poverty was the main driving force behind child labor, as families relied on the income generated by their children. To address this issue, the study recommended various measures, including raising public awareness, advocating for children's rights, empowering communities, promoting sustainable economic growth, and improving labor market conditions.