Effects of Socio-Economic Factors on Academic Performance of Students in Islamic Senior High School in Sagnarigu Municipality

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the influence of socioeconomic factors on the academic performance of students at Tamale Islamic Science Senior High School. Grounded in a positivist philosophical paradigm, the research adopted a quantitative approach and regression analysis. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data from a sample of 306 second-year students and 60 parents of students selected for the study. The regression analysis carried out revealed that parental education levels and occupation showed minimal or negligible influence on student academic performance. However, families with large sizes showed significant influence on students’ academic performance as opposed to families with small sizes. In light of these findings, the study recommends that parents become more actively involved in their children’s academic endeavours, seek help for wards when necessary, and that schools should develop support mechanisms, such as student Aid offices as well as a well-structured guidance and counselling services for students facing academic, socio-personal and financial constraints in the schools particularly the Islamic Senior High School in Tamale Metropolis.