Feature: The Negative Impact of Motorbike Riding on Youth Education in Liberia

By Korlu Lucinda Reeves

MONROVIA-In Liberia, motorbike riding has become widespread among youth due to its accessibility and the economic opportunities it offers for transportation and income generation. However, while it provides short-term financial benefits, motorbike riding negatively impacts youth education by reducing school attendance, lowering academic performance, and exposing riders to social distractions and risks. This paper examines both the negative and positive effects of motorbike riding and offers recommendations to address these issues.

Firstly, motorbike riding significantly contributes to a decline in school attendance among Liberian youth. Many young people, particularly in rural and urban areas, abandon formal education to work as commercial motorbike riders to support themselves or their families. According to a 2022 study by Liberian sociologist and education researcher James Flomo, 65% of youth involved in motorbike transportation dropped out of school. Flomo explained that the primary reason for this trend was the urgent need for income to support families. Additionally, a report by the Ministry of Education (2021) highlighted that economic hardship among families is a major factor driving children to leave school for informal work, including motorbike riding. Similarly, research by Jones and Samuels (2022) emphasized that early workforce entry, such as motorbike riding, reduces the time and energy available for academic pursuits, often leading to poor performance or permanent withdrawal from school. This means that while motorbike riding provides immediate financial relief, it creates long-term barriers to educational attainment and personal development.

Motorbike riding also poses safety risks that disrupt education. Road accidents involving motorbike riders are common in Liberia due to poor road conditions, lack of safety gear, and inadequate traffic regulations. Injuries sustained in such accidents often lead to extended school absences or, in severe cases, permanent withdrawal from education. A 2023 report by the Ministry of Transport revealed that motorbike accidents account for over 40% of road traffic injuries among youth, many of whom are of school age. This alarming statistic highlights the physical and emotional toll accidents take on young riders and their ability to continue their education.

Despite these challenges, motorbike riding offers certain positive aspects that cannot be overlooked. For many young people, it provides a vital source of income that helps alleviate poverty and meet basic needs. In communities with limited employment opportunities, motorbike riding enables youth to gain independence and support their families. Additionally, the skills learned, such as vehicle maintenance and navigation, can be beneficial in other areas of life or future careers. For instance, a report by the Liberia Youth Employment Program (2023) noted that motorbike riding has helped some young individuals save for vocational training or entrepreneurial ventures.

To address these issues, policymakers and community leaders should implement initiatives that balance economic opportunities with the promotion of education. Vocational training programs tailored to the needs of young riders can provide alternative employment opportunities that align with long-term goals. Additionally, community awareness campaigns on the importance of education and safe motorbike riding practices can encourage youth to stay in school while minimizing risks. Financial support programs, such as scholarships or subsidies, can further assist families in covering educational costs, reducing the need for children to leave school to earn income.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while motorbike riding may offer economic opportunities for Liberian youth, its detrimental impact on education is evident. Reduced school attendance, safety risks, financial strain, and exposure to social vices collectively hinder the educational and personal development of young riders. By addressing these challenges through targeted interventions, Liberia can create a more balanced approach that ensures both economic growth and educational advancement for its youth.

Alphonso Toweh

Has been in the profession for over twenty years. He has worked for many international media outlets  including: West Africa Magazine, Africa Week Magazine, African Observer and  did occasional reporting for CNN, BBC World Service, Sunday Times, NPR, Radio Deutchewells, Radio Netherlands. He is the current correspondent for Reuters 
 He holds first  MA with honors in International  Relations and a  candidate for second master in International Peace studies and Conflict  Resolution from the University of Liberia.