EVALUATING THE ROLE OF LOCAL MEDIA IN REPORTING BARRIERS TO EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN IN IDPS CAMPS IN BENUE STATE

Abstract

This study evaluates the role of local media corporations in coverage of educational barriers that affect children residing in Benue State’s internally displaced persons (IDPs) camps. The study was anchored on agenda-setting theory and framing theory. The research technique employed was the in-depth interview of both the media professionals, internally displaced persons, IDPs camps officials and humanitarian workers which establishes the magnitude and influence of reportage regarding educational matters. To determine the sample for this study, multi-Stage sampling techniques was employed to select respondents for this study. Data was collected and analyze by qualitative explanation building method of analysis based on research questions raised in the study was used to analyze responses from the respondents. Findings show that, Access to qualified teachers (certified educators), psychological trauma, safety and security, and lack of funding (financial support) are the barriers to education for children in IDPs camps. The research work also finds out that, local media particularly played the role of reporting barriers to education for children in IDPs camps such as raising awareness on issues affecting IDPs children; talking points about violence; revealing systemic issues that bear on the intractable nature of educational challenges in IDP camps, advocacy and mobilization as well as educational programming for IDPs camp children. The study therefore recommends that media should avoid using its platform to generate support and financial gain from IDPs the situation serves as a profit opportunity for those who exploit it through the media. Advocacy alongside sensitization are tasks that should involve the media and collaboration for humanitarian assistance for the importance of education for IDP children.