Feb 16 β€’ 05:48 UTC 🌍 Africa AllAfrica

Kenya: Government Intensifies Push for Teen Mothers to Return to School, Empowers 200 in Kisii

The Kenyan government is enhancing efforts to reintegrate teenage mothers into the education system, with a new program supporting 200 young mothers in Kisii County.

In a significant move to support teenage mothers, the Kenyan government has intensified its initiatives aimed at reintegrating these young women back into the education system. Specifically, an empowerment program has been launched in Bobasi Constituency, Kisii County, benefiting at least 200 young mothers who had previously dropped out of school due to pregnancy. Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok emphasized the importance of the government's commitment to the School Re-Entry Policy, which facilitates the return of girls to school after childbirth without stigma.

During the empowerment forum in Kisii, Bitok reiterated that pregnancy should not be viewed as a barrier to education. He stated, "Teen mothers should not consider pregnancy as the end of their education," underscoring the government’s dedication to ensuring no girl is excluded from schooling due to becoming a mother. The program aligns with Kenya's broader educational guidelines, which have been designed to offer a clear framework for the return of teenage mothers to school, thereby promoting inclusivity in education.

Nevertheless, the government acknowledges that various challenges remain. Despite the existence of supportive re-entry guidelines, factors such as societal stigma, poverty, and a lack of awareness continue to pose significant hurdles for many young mothers. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the success of the initiative, aiming not only to improve educational access for teenage mothers but also to change societal perceptions surrounding young motherhood in Kenya.

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