Examining the Effects of Public Policy on Free and Compulsory Education in Akwa Ibom State: Strategic Solutions for Effective Implementation

The Free and Compulsory Education program in Akwa Ibom State faces significant challenges in achieving its policy objectives, resulting in gaps between intended outcomes and actual impacts. This study evaluates the influence of public policy on this educational initiative, grounded in Human Capital Development and Liberal Educational Theory. A survey design was utilized, selecting a sample of 40 individuals from a diverse population of 45 using the Taro Yamane statistical method. Data was collected via a structured questionnaire titled “Effects of Public Opinion on Free and Compulsory Education in Akwa Ibom State Questionnaire (EFPFCEIASQ)†and analyzed using mean statistics, standard deviation, and one-sample t-test at a 0.05 significance level. The findings indicate a positive and significant impact of public perception on the policy, alongside improved governmental commitment and substantial budgetary allocations since the program’s inception in 2007. Recommendations include ensuring quality through increased and sustained funding, prioritizing infrastructure and human resource development, and adopting new administrative strategies to address implementation challenges effectively.