Abstract

Migration has been a fundamental aspect of human history, significantly shaping societies and economies, education and training, human resources and workforce, and community worldwide. This study examines the relationship between migration and the socio-economic development of rural communities in the Ife-Ijesa Zone of Osun State, Nigeria. The research explores migration patterns, socio-economic factors influencing migration, and its impacts on families and communities. Utilizing a descriptive research design, the study combines qualitative and quantitative methods, surveying 300 participants, including migrants and households, to analyze migration's implications. The findings reveal that migration in the Ife-Ijesa Zone is predominantly rural-to-urban, driven by economic opportunities, educational aspirations, and limited access to basic services. Seasonal and international migration trends are also notable, with younger individuals more likely to migrate. Remittances from migrants have contributed positively to family incomes, education financing, and local investments, thereby improving living standards. However, migration poses challenges such as labor shortages in agriculture and the erosion of traditional social structures. Testing hypotheses demonstrates the dual character of migration as a source of labor depletion and financial inflows, confirming a considerable influence of migration on socioeconomic growth. This study underscores the need for policies of workforce, education and training development that optimize migration's benefits while addressing its adverse effects. Recommendations include strengthening local economic opportunities, enhancing infrastructure, and creating support systems for migrants and their families to foster the workforce, education and training development towards sustainable development in the Ife-Ijesa Zone.