Abstract
Education is a fundamental human right and a critical tool for the development of individuals and
societies. However, the child or children of single mothers have difficulties accessing formal
education based on the socio-economic status of the mothers. As a result, this examined
socioeconomic status of single mothers and their children’s access to formal education in Awka
South Local Government Area. Five research questions guided the study. Four theories were
reviewed and anchored on functionalism and social influence theory for the theoretical framework.
Qualitative research design was adopted. The target population are single mothers that have given
birth to one or more children. The sample size is 30 participants. Purposive sampling technique was
used to select the participants. In-Depth Interview (IDI) guided the study and was used to collect
qualitative data. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data gotten from the participants. The
study found out that single mothers face complex challenges in securing their children’s education,
influenced by their educational level, income, employment, and time constraints. Strengthening
government support and implementing inclusive policies reduces these barriers, ensure equal
educational access and improving long-term outcomes for children raised in single-parent
households. It was recommended that government should implement educational programmes
aimed at enhancing the literacy and skill levels of single mothers, empowering them to make
informed decisions about their children’s education and better manage their resources. The
government should introduce government and non-governmental programmes that provide
financial assistance to single mothers.