The community support and its role in adolescent pregnancy and school reintegration in rural Rwanda: a mixed-methods study.

BACKGROUND

In low-income rural Rwanda, adolescent pregnancy limits health and education, leading to poor health outcomes, high dropout rates, and restricted socioeconomic mobility. While previous studies have inspected the prevalence, stigma, and health-related aspects of adolescent pregnancy in Rwanda, research is needed to investigate the impact of parental support and reproductive health education in these communities.

OBJECTIVES

This research investigates the connection between adolescent pregnancy, socioeconomic status, and parental engagement in reproductive health education in rural Rwanda. It also assessed the availability of support resources and challenges faced by adolescent mothers in school.

METHOD: A cross-sectional survey used structured questionnaires with 1,635 individuals across Nyanza, Bugesera, and Ngoma districts. Qualitative data from focus group discussions with adolescent mothers and community leaders explored educational obstacles and resource availability. Key informant interviews offered further insights. Descriptive and correlation analysis examined relationships between parental support, socioeconomic level, adolescent pregnancy, and school dropout.

RESULTS

Significant parental involvement in reproductive health education was reported by 68.3% of parents. Ninety-five percent of adolescent mothers reported that being pregnant had a detrimental impact on their academic achievement. Adolescent pregnancy was significantly associated with poor socioeconomic position, and correlation analysis verified this relationship with school dropout.

CONCLUSION

The study highlights the importance of parental involvement and enhanced support services, such as reproductive health education and school-based adjustments, to reduce adolescent pregnancy and improve educational outcomes. These initiatives align with the Sustainable Development Goals, aiming to empower young mothers and reduce inequality.