A Comparative Study of the Effects of Formal Education on Rural and Urban Families in Central Region of Ghana

Abstract

This study sought to make a comparative analysis of the effects of formal education on rural and urban families in the Central Region of Ghana. The main objective of this research was to find out whether the changes that come as a result of formal education have strengthened or weakened the structure and function of the contemporary rural Watreso and urban Cape Coast families. Using a descriptive research design, the study employed a semi-structured interview guide and four focus group discussions to elicit data from a total of 49 respondents from Watreso in the Twifo-Hemang Lower- Denkyira District and three suburbs (Cape Coast Core, Abura and Adisadel settlements) all in the Cape Coast Metropolis. The findings of the study revealed that formal education has a significant effect on the contemporary rural Watreso and urban Cape Coast families which to some extent has strengthened the structure and function of these families. However, the study also revealed some challenges and changes that the contemporary rural (Watreso) and urban (Cape Coast) families have experienced in the wake of formal education. Enmity and hatred against rich members of the family have been a problem. It was recommended that well to do members freely help the needy members in their families.