Providence Moyo
During an address at a Pan African Parliament workshop in Pretoria, Matabeleleland North Women’s Quota MP Elizabeth Masuku from Umguza District urged Africa to confront and dismantle the cultural barriers that prevent teenage mothers from accessing education.
Highlighting education as a vital tool for empowerment, Masuku’s message resonates as a rallying cry for change across the continent.
“These barriers can be reinforced by the education system itself, influencing the subjects students pursue and their future career choices,” Masuku emphasized, underscoring the need for systemic reform. She pointed to the profound impact of language, cultural norms, and stereotypes on educational access, calling for a concerted effort to promote inclusive education.
Masuku outlined several actionable strategies to combat these issues: “We must encourage diverse perspectives in educational materials and curricula, provide support systems for teenage mothers, and address language barriers through targeted training programs.” She also stressed the importance of fostering a culture of understanding and empathy among educators and students alike.
Zimbabwe, along with several other countries in the region, has made strides in addressing this issue. The Education Amendment Act of 2020 allows teenage mothers to return to school, while Zambia’s school re-entry policy, introduced in 1997, has successfully reintegrated girls who dropped out due to pregnancy. South Africa has also launched initiatives aimed at removing cultural barriers to education.
Masuku’s call to action is particularly urgent, as cultural norms continue to obstruct access to education for teenage mothers throughout Africa. By collaborating to dismantle these barriers, the continent can pave the way for a brighter future for all its citizens.
