A comparison between South Africa and Uganda, in respect of child labour as a hindrance to the right to education

Abstract

In many parts of the world children are engaged in child labour, some of the key factors that contribute to the prevalence of child labour include; poverty, societal perception of child labour and cultural influences. A child’s right to education is essential for the growth and development of a child in order the knowledge and skills needed to progress in life and better exposure to better opportunities in life. However when child labour interferes with or hinders a child’s right to education, this limits a child’s opportunity to grow, thus subjecting them to low paying jobs and keeping them in the cycle of poverty. South Africa and Uganda recognise the importance of the rights of the child which is evident in existing legalisation protecting the rights of the child in both countries, the ratification, by both countries, of international law and instruments protecting the rights of children, as well the establishment policies, programmes, and other initiatives protecting the rights of the child. Basic education is compulsory in both countries and duties are placed on parents and guardians ensure they receive this. However there still exist large amounts of children involved in child labour, many of whom are dropping out of school due financial hardships and other circumstances and thus resorting to child labour to assist and take care of their families. This research argues that education and increased awareness about the detrimental effect of child are both important tools in the elimination of child labour. This research reviews existing legalisation, policies and programmes and initiatives in place for the reduction and elimination of child labour in Uganda and South Africa and identifies good practices in both countries which could be implemented to create new and strengthen existing systems and mechanism in place against child labour.