"SLC-S24/W3 - Powerful Debate | Love & Arguments"

Among the mixed reactions of parents, is it only the mother's responsibility to educate the child? The father has no responsibility, and if the fathers avoid responsibility in this regard, So what kind of mentality can be developed towards those children?

When it comes to a child’s education, the question isn't who should care more the father or the mother but why both aren’t equally involved. Education is the foundation of a child's future, and the burden of nurturing it should never fall on one parent alone.

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Let me begin with a simple truth backed by psychology and real-life experience: children thrive best when both parents are actively involved in their growth, especially their education. A child isn’t just made by biology but shaped by attention, guidance, and consistent love from both parents.

In many Nigerian homes today, we see a familiar pattern the mother doing the school runs, managing homework, attending PTA meetings, and organizing extra classes. Meanwhile, the father claims, "I’m busy providing." This excuse might have flown decades ago, but in our modern world, it's no longer valid.

According to a UNESCO report, children whose fathers are involved in their education are more likely to earn higher grades and display better behavior. In contrast, children raised in homes where fathers are distant or disinterested in academics often struggle with motivation and confidence.

Let me paint a real-life picture.

A neighbor of mine, Mrs. Tola, practically carried her son’s education on her back. From kindergarten through junior secondary, she was the teacher, the homework supervisor, the encourager. Her husband, a businessman, often said, “I pay the bills, and that’s enough.” But when their son, Kunle, got to SS1, he began to rebel.

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He didn’t listen to his mother anymore and became disconnected. Why? Because he never saw his father value learning or take interest in his development. By then, it was too late to suddenly expect Kunle to take education seriously when his male role model never did.

Where the responsibility of the family's success lies with the father and the father has to earn an income to handle all the details of the family, due to which the father cannot give enough time to the family and his child, is it right? Or if the father cannot take the responsibility of his child's education while earning money, is it right? What do you mean by that?

So, let’s ask the hard question: Can a child succeed with only one parent actively involved in education? Of course, it’s possible. Single mothers and single fathers around the world are doing a heroic job. But where both parents are present, why should one parent carry the entire load? Especially when education is not just about homework, but discipline, encouragement, emotional intelligence, and preparing for life.

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Fathers, especially, bring a different dynamic. They offer logic-based problem solving, confidence building, and a strong sense of structure. When a father sits down and reads with a child, helps with math homework, or simply shows interest in school activities, that child feels seen and supported.

Let’s not forget that we are in a time when both parents often work full-time jobs. The notion that only mothers should be in charge of home affairs is outdated. If a father can scroll through social media, watch football, or hang out with friends after work, he definitely can spend 20 minutes helping his child study.

What is the most important thing in a child's education? Both parents should provide them with good education and study on time. In this case, can the child's education and progress improve? Or if the father does not pay attention to education, can the child achieve much more success in education only through the mother's education

And here’s the bitter truth: children mirror what they see. If the father shows no regard for education, the child will internalize that. But if the child sees both parents working hand in hand, cheering them on, correcting mistakes, and celebrating achievements, that child grows up knowing that education is a priority for the entire family.

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I say with confidence and conviction: a child’s education should be a joint responsibility. Neither the mother nor the father should bear it alone. If both parents are equally invested, the child gains a balanced perspective, stronger emotional support, and better academic outcomes. It is not about who earns more or who is busier it’s about what matters more: the future of your child.

Fathers, step up. Education is not a woman’s duty it’s a parent’s duty.