INFLUENCE OF INADEQUATE GOVERNMENT FUNDING ON THE ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF BIOLOGY STUDENTS IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN ONDO TOWN, ONDO STATE

This study examines the influence of government's inadequate funding on the academic performance of Biology students in public secondary schools in Ondo Town, Ondo State. The research focuses on the impact of funding shortages on laboratory facilities, instructional materials, teacher recruitment and retention, and overall student performance in Biology. A sample size of 100 students was selected using a simple random sampling technique to ensure fair representation. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and data were collected using a structured questionnaire. The responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (t-test and ANOVA) to test the research hypotheses. Findings revealed that inadequate funding significantly affects the availability and quality of laboratory facilities, leading to a lack of essential equipment for practical lessons. Many schools also experience shortages of instructional materials, such as textbooks and laboratory resources, which hinder students' learning experiences. Additionally, the study confirmed that government funding influences the recruitment and retention of qualified Biology teachers, as low salaries and a lack of incentives lead to high turnover rates, affecting students' learning outcomes. The statistical analysis showed a significant relationship between government funding and student performance, indicating that better-funded schools tend to achieve higher academic success in Biology. The study concludes that insufficient government funding is a major barrier to effective Biology education, negatively impacting students' academic performance and limiting their opportunities in science-related careers. It is recommended that the government increase funding for education, improve resource allocation, and provide incentives for Biology teachers to enhance teaching quality. Additionally, stakeholders, including private organizations and NGOs, should collaborate with the government to support educational infrastructure and instructional materials in public schools.