Authors : Hilderitha E. Matupa; Leah Omari Natujwa; Raphael Ernest Asantemungu

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 5 - May

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/nd66xtf6

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/bdeza9s7

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26may2206

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : This study aimed to examine social norms and expectations regarding motherhood and their impact on the decision to resume studies after childbirth. A qualitative research approach with a case study design was employed. This study was guided by the ecological systems theory. A total of 68 study participants obtained through purposive sampling were involved in this study. This included teenage mothers, students, teachers, heads of schools, parents, and social welfare officers. The secondary schools and centres involved in the study included Makumbusho, Kijitonyama, and Magomeni. Turiani and Bunju KKKT (Binti Mama) centres were also included in these studies. The data were collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The analysis was conducted using content analysis, and the data were presented in themes. The study found that the community often holds negative expectations regarding teenage mothers and their ability to continue their education. Teenage mothers often feel severely isolated as a result of this stigma. Cultural practices contribute to the challenges faced by teenage mothers seeking to return to school after giving birth, discouragement from the community, and social exclusion. The study recommends that the stakeholders, such as local government officials, social workers and teachers, should educate families and communities to eradicate the prevailing norms to enable pregnant girls and teenage mothers to resume their secondary school studies after delivery.

Keywords : Schoolgirls, Teenage Pregnancy, Childbearing, Motherhood.

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