Abstract:
Many non-governmental organizations have been working to improve the socio-economic problems of
street children. In line with this, the main objective of this study was to assess the role of non governmental organization in mitigating the socio economic problem of street children in the study
area. In order to achieve the objective of the study, the researcher used qualitative research approach
and descriptive research design.The data was collected from key informants and other research
participants through semi–structured interview, focus group discussion and observations. Research
informants were selected through purposive sampling techniques. Moreover, supplementary data was
obtained from pertinent published and unpublished documents.The findings of this study revealed that
the main reason for the exposure of children to the street life in the study area were poverty, family
disintegration, neglect and violence at home, lack of educational opportunities, to escape from work
demandat home, to find a shelter, to escape from family punishment, peer pressure, migration,
death of parents and sexual violence.The study also found that there are different challenges that
face non-governmental organizations when they support street children like luck of transportation,
budget, medical professional and luck of adequate equipment’s for the services of food and others.The
findings also confirmed that the support that provided by these non-governmental organizations are
place of residence, meal services, clothes, hygiene materials and teaching materials. Those non governmental organizations support those children in two ways:- by taking into their organization and
support with their family. Thus, researcher conclude that their role is not enough when we compare
with the problems. But the problem of street children was not the issue that should be left to non governmental organizations. Thus, the researcher recommended that,efforts should be made by all
Stake holders ’Governmental, Non-governmental and community based organizations and by the
public at large. All the stakeholders need to work hand in hand in order to alleviate the multi-faceted
problems of these unfortunate children
