ISSN : 2663-2187

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)-Cultural Practices and the Role of Education in its Eradication in Nigeria

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IRORITERAYE-ADJEKPOVU, Janice Imizuokena
ยป doi: 10.33472/AFJBS.6.9.2024.5210-5221

Abstract

The study investigated the role of education in eradicating female genital mutilation (FGM) cultural practices in Nigeria. The study was conducted in multiple regions of Nigeria, targeting communities where FGM is prevalent. A representative sample of health workers were selected for the study. Data collection was conducted using an instrument titled "The Role of Education in Eradicating Female Genital Mutilation Cultural Practices, TREEFGMCP." Three experts validated the instruments and its reliability was established using Cronbach Alpha. Specifically, the instrument had a reliability coefficient of 0.77. Six research assistants aided the researcher in the collection of data. The data collected were analysed using weighted mean with a criterion mean of 2.50 since the items in the question were framed on a four-point scale. The study revealed that: the practice of FGM is a deeply entrenched cultural tradition in Nigeria that poses serious health risks and violation of human rights to women and girls, and the prevalence of FGM is highest in South East, South West and North East regions due to persistent cultural beliefs; and education plays a crucial role in combating and eradicating FGM by raising awareness, changing societal norms and empowering individuals to make informed choices. It was recommended that government should integrate education on the harmful effects of FGM into the school curriculum to raise awareness and empower young women to make informed decisions about their bodies.

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