EDUCATION AS A CATALYST FOR BOOSTING THE SELF-IMAGE OF THE AFRICAN CHILD

Abstract

Nelson Mandela opined that education is the most potent force that can transform the world. The above statement also applies to transformation of lives. Education is a fundamental right given recognition under the international and regional human rights instruments and national constitutions. Education is not only for the purpose of securing a white-collar job, but also for individual and societal development. Self-image is a product of learning and an outcome of knowledge acquired at different levels of life, be it the family, school and the community. While education can have impact on the self-image of a child, equally, self-image can have effect on education of the child. In relation to the latter, it is important for a child to have positive self-image as it enables the child handle setbacks in education with ease. It is important to examine any correlation between education and self-image and if there is, concerted effort should be made, to ensure that the African child, especially the girl child have quality education to boost and enhance their self- image. While this paper is generally on the African child, there are references to the girl child because of the peculiarities. This paper considers the following: definitions of the child in relation to the African child; the definition and benefits of education; laws regulating the right to education; and highlight factors affecting quality education of the African child. The paper concludes that education is a catalyst for boosting the self-image for the African child and proffers recommendations.