School Leadership Role in Mitigating the Effects of Teenage Pregnancy on Academic Performance of Senior High School Students in Ghana

Teenage pregnancy continues to pose a significant threat to the educational development of young girls in many communities in Ghana. This study explores the role of school leaders and school level policies in mitigating the effects of teenage pregnancy on the academic performance and progression of Senior High School girls in the Northern Region of Ghana. Case study design provided the framework for the research, and a mixed-method approach was used to gather both quantitative and qualitative data. A total of 105 respondents were selected using simple random and purposive sampling techniques. The findings indicate that teenage pregnancy negatively impacts school attendance, academic performance, and emotional stability. Also, it affects the relationships between pregnant teenagers, their parents, and educators. The study highlights the critical need for effective school leadership and comprehensive school policies, including comprehensive sex education programmes, the promotion of preventive and proactive measures, and supportive strategies to delay early sexual engagement among students. These measures are very important in addressing the academic and social challenges posed by teenage pregnancy within senior high institutions in the Region.