The Role of Non-Governmental Organizationsin Mitigating Socio-Economic Problems of Street ChildrenInBishoftu Town

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 Moreover, supplementary data was obtained from pertinent published and unpublished documents.The findings of this study revealed that the main reason for the exposure of children to the street life in the study area were poverty, family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