Assessment of Participation of the School Community in Managing the Primary School Pregnancy Problem in Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania

Abstract

To address the problem of primary school pregnancy in Morogoro Municipality, the study assessed the participation of the educational community. This study aimed to determine the school community's participation, particularly about the problem of primary school pregnancy. The study was conducted in the primary schools in Mwere, Mchikichini, Chamwino A, Kilakala, and Kihonda, all in the Morogoro Municipality. This study employed a qualitative technique and a multiple-case study design. The participants included teachers, parents, religious leaders, pupils, the District Education Officer (DEO), and Ward Education Officers. Eighty participants were chosen using a combination of random and purposeful sampling techniques. Data was gathered via semi-structured interviews, focus group interview guides, observation, and documentation. The results show that the majority of Morogoro municipality's school communities have been involved in managing the problem of primary school girls getting pregnant. The study also demonstrated the extent to which school communities helped in managing the problem of pregnancy among primary school girls. Different groups participated in different ways, with government officials conducting follow-ups, terminating pregnant girls, holding community workshops, and forming various committees to handle the issue. In addition to parents and religious leaders preaching positive behavior and parenting, pupils were instructed to inform their parents or teachers if they saw female pupils acting badly or socializing with guys.  The study revealed that when the school community was more involved in problem-solving, it was easier to manage the problem. Participation must be prioritized to solve the problem of primary school pregnancy. This study suggests that rather than blaming specific pupils, the Tanzanian government should ensure that the school community's involvement is focused on managing school pregnancy issues. The study's conclusion suggested that the Tanzanian government collaborate with other partners via the school community initiative to inform the public about the importance of community participation in managing problems such as the high rate of schoolgirl pregnancies and potential remedies.