Understanding the Consequence of Early Marriage on Girls’ Education: The Case of South Sudanese Refugee Girls in Nguenyyiel Refugee Camp, Gambella Peoples’ National Regional State, Ethiopia
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Date
2023-12
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The primary focus of this study was to examine the impact of early marriage on girls' education within the context of the Nguenyyiel refugee camp in Gambella. Early marriage deeply ingrained in socio-cultural customs, forces young girls to abandon their schooling. To explore the consequences of early marriage on girl’s education, data was collected from married girls aged between 12 and 17 years, husbands and parents of the girls, schoolteachers (educators), camp coordinatorsand representatives from child protection-focused international nongovernmental organizations through Key informant interview, In-depth interview. Focus group discussion and observation. The findings revealed that poverty was a major factor leading to early marriages, while some girls reported getting married to fulfill family expectations. This pervasive cultural norm not only deprives young girls of valuable time with their families and peers but also infringes upon their rights to education and autonomy in choosing their life partners. The results also demonstrated that all the participants discontinued their education after marriage, with each of them expressing the negative consequences they experienced as a result. Adverse health outcomes such as fistula and depression were found to be prevalent among these girls. Moreover, domestic violence, poverty, and illiteracy emerged as significant short-term and long-term consequences affecting the lives of these young girls, with potential long-lasting impacts on their future well-being. Despite the acknowledgment of the practice of early marriage within the refugee camp, limited attention has been given to effectively address this harmful cultural norm. Funding allocated to combat child and forced marriages remains insufficient, and there is a prevailing perception that challenging early marriage is a complex task due to its deep-rooted nature in socio-cultural beliefs. It is crucial to highlight the urgent need for comprehensive interventions that prioritize combating early marriage and safeguarding girls' education and rights. Efforts should include raising awareness about the detrimental consequences of early marriage, engaging community leaders and stakeholders to challenge harmful norms, and allocating adequate resources to support initiatives aimed at preventing and addressing early marriage within the refugee camp. By addressing these issues, we can empower young girls, promote gender equality, and ensure their access to education, health, and a brighter future.
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Keywords
Refugee, Early marriage, Girls education, South Sudaneserefugee girls, Cultural and social norms.