Barriers faced by pregnant learners when trying to finish their education in Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa

Abstract

The aim of the study was to explore barriers faced by pregnant learners when trying to finish their education in the Vhembe district of Limpopo Province, South Africa. A qualitative research approach was used to investigate the phenomenon from the learners’ perspective. The target population comprised of senior phase pregnant adolescent learners (grade 7 to 9 learners), Focus group interview schedule was used to collect data from the participants. Data was analyzed thematically. The findings revealed amongst others the following barriers: stigmatisation and isolation and also name calling. Recommendations were made on educators to be flexible by providing educational and emotional support to remove pregnancy as a barrier to the young girls’ education.