UMEAKU Sandra Udoka

This study examined the impact of poverty on the academic achievement of primary school pupils in Ekiosa Community, Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State. Specifically, it investigated the relationship between family income, availability of learning materials, nutritional status, parental education, and pupils’ academic performance, as well as potential interventions that social workers and schools could implement to mitigate the effects of poverty. The study adopted a case study design involving five primary schools, with a sample of 286 respondents comprising pupils, teachers, parents, and school administrators. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, interviews, observation, and academic records. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and correlation analysis, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. Findings revealed that low family income, inadequate learning materials, poor nutrition, and limited parental education significantly hindered pupils’ academic achievement. The study further identified key interventions, including school feeding programs, provision of learning materials, guidance and counselling, and community social work support, as effective strategies to enhance educational outcomes. The study concluded that poverty is a major barrier to academic success, and social workers and schools play a crucial role in mitigating its adverse effects. Recommendations were made for targeted school and community interventions to improve learning opportunities for disadvantaged pupils.