New Initiative to Support Girls Who Dropped Out of School Due to Pregnancy

April 29, 2024, Dodoma: The Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology will utilize findings from research on the General State of Education and Child Development, as well as the Reintegration of Girls Who Dropped Out of School Due to Pregnancy, to enhance Child Development and Education for re-enrolled girls post childbirth.

Speaking during the launch of the two reports, Deputy Secretary-General of the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology, Dr. Franklin Rwezimula, stated that the ministry would use the research results to improve Child Development and Education for re-enrolled girls.

Dr. Rwezimula emphasized that the research would assist in verifying existing information and monitoring how girls, communities, teachers, and other stakeholders receive and utilize this important opportunity.

Furthermore, he highlighted that the research outcomes would enable the government and education stakeholders to address challenges in implementing the Inclusive Reintegration program effectively.

In addition, Dr. John Kalage, the Executive Director of HakiElimu, emphasized the significance of the research in providing evidence for policy implementation, particularly in child upbringing and development, a key focus area of the organization's five-year Strategic Plan (2022-2026).

The two distinct studies are linked by the overarching concept of child welfare, from birth to eight years old.

Dr. Kalage underscored that the issue of reintegrating pregnant girls into school not only provides opportunities for the girls but also affects the welfare of the children born during their schooling period.

Recognizing the complexities of child upbringing, Dr. Kalage stressed the need for collaborative efforts from all stakeholders in society to address the challenges effectively.

He commended the government and various institutions for their support in facilitating the research, emphasizing that such collaboration enhances the production of research data and improves child upbringing services and education accessibility in Tanzania.