Evaluation of Strategies for the Reduction of Adolescent Pregnancies in Public Boarding Girls Secondary Schools of Narok County, Kenya
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Date
2024-06
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Kenyatta University
Abstract
The study delves into the assessment of strategies aimed at curbing the prevalence of adolescent pregnancies within public boarding girls’ secondary schools in Narok County, Kenya. With a comprehensive focus, the research aims to identify the strategies that have been put into action, gauge their effectiveness, pinpoint the obstacles faced, and propose viable solutions tailored to the context of Narok County's boarding schools. Guided by the ecological systems theory, the study takes into account the dynamic interplay between diverse life environments and their influence on behaviour. Employing a cross-sectional descriptive design, the research centres on students enrolled in boarding schools in Narok County, aiming for a comprehensive understanding of the situation. The study's sample encompasses 72 participants, comprising school principals, counsellors, and students. This selection is achieved through purposive sampling, a method that ensures the inclusion of key stakeholders who possess valuable insights into the issue. Through a qualitative approach involving interviews and focus group discussions, the study collects data that is subsequently scrutinized for emerging themes and patterns. The investigation reveals a range of strategies designed to reduce adolescent pregnancies, including counselling services, peer counselling initiatives, active parental involvement, and organized speaker sessions. Unveiling the challenges that impede these strategies, the research points to obstacles such as parental non-cooperation, deep-rooted cultural norms, peer pressures, and financial constraints. In response, the study presents practical solutions encompassing the promotion of sports and educational clubs, the provision of comprehensive sexual education, distribution of sanitary towels, and a stronger legal framework against those responsible for underage pregnancies. The study also unearths the root causes behind adolescent pregnancies, underscoring the influence of poverty and teacher oversight, and inadequate sexual education. To mitigate these causes, the study highlights the importance of promoting abstinence and comprehensive sexual education to equip adolescents with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate relationships and their consequences. Recognizing that the battle against adolescent pregnancies demands a collaborative approach, the study emphasizes the need for concerted efforts from parents, schools, local communities, religious institutions, and law enforcement agencies. Furthermore, the study underscores the intrinsic link between preventing adolescent pregnancies and upholding the right to education, particularly for young girls. By addressing this issue comprehensively, society can contribute to ensuring a safer, healthier and more equitable educational environment for all.
Description
A Thesis Submitted to the School of Law, Arts and Social Sciences in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Master of Arts in Gender and Development Studies of Kenyatta University, June, 2024
Supervisors:
1. Leah Wanjama
2. Sarah Fedha Barasa