The Voices: Socio-economic Implication of Adolescent Challenges and Prospects in Rural and Urban Areas in Adamawa State, Nigeria, a Qualitative Approach

Abstract

Young people are the leaders of tomorrow. What happens to them now should concern every responsible adult and is worth scholarly attention. The study captured the voices of adolescents in rural and urban areas in Adamawa state in a bit to understand the socio-economic challenges and opportunities that young adolescents are exposed to in their formative years. The Focus Group Discussion technique was used to interview and generate responses from 325 rural and urban adolescents in Dumne, Lainde, Yola town, and Demsa areas. Their responses were recorded in a notepad and later typed into MS word. Results revealed the challenges of adolescents in rural and urban areas, which include:

• Lack of sporting facilities,


• Inadequate science teachers,


• Inability to pay school fees,


• Inadequate classes and facilities,


• Overpopulated classes,


• Lack of employment opportunities for out-of-school adolescents,


• Lack of social amenities and unplanned marriage

Urban adolescents unanimously respond that lack of self-esteem, stress, and being overworked are their major challenges. High poverty rates among young people and discrimination have also been stated as the challenges that young people face in urban areas. The study concludes that the challenges faced by young adolescents pose a huge threat to the well-being of young people and their productivity, thus affecting the future prospects that the labour force is expected to contribute to the economic growth of the State. However, available opportunities in the State, such as education, healthcare, and parental support, provide concrete means for which adolescents' challenges can be neutralized to guarantee healthy and productive individuals. The study, therefore, recommends practical steps that would ensure the rights of the child are guaranteed to protect the well-being of adolescents through the provision of accessible and quality education, shelter, and healthy nutrition. For out-of-school adolescents, practical steps to assist young adolescents in acquiring entrepreneurial skills are required to help them become economically self-reliant. Efforts should also be made to purposefully engage young people in speaking up about issues that hurt them without fear of being resented or intimidated in their immediate environment.