Sub-Saharan Africa

Nigeria is Africa’s most populous country and is comprised of more than 250 different ethnic groups. The country has had a National Policy on Education drafted since 1981, but has failed to implement it effectively. One of the most notable barriers to girls’ education in Nigeria is the fact that over 70% of the population live below the poverty line. Girls are frequently sent to work on the street or in the markets instead of going to school, in order to support the family income. The teacher-pupil ratio is also extremely high with as many as 100 children in each class at times. Six Nigerian States have been targeted for urgent action and, so far, a Universal Basic Education programme focussed on improving access, retention and quality of curriculum delivered throughout 9 years of formal education has been established.

Primary Education

Primary School Enrolment Ratio (gross 1995-2001) Primary School Enrolment Ratio (net 1995-2001) Net Primary School Attendance (%) (1992-2001*) % of Primary School entrants reaching Grade5 (1995-2001*) % Gender Gap (net male – net female) Male Female Male Female Male Female All   75 65 38 33 58 53 80 5

Adult Literacy Ratio (2000)