The Detrimental Effects of Bronco Drug Abuse on Educational Outcomes Among Zimbabwe Rural Female Adolescents in Masvingo West constituency: Underlying Causes and Mitigative Strategies

This qualitative study investigated the adverse implications of Bronco drug abuse on the educational attainment of rural female adolescents in Masvingo West constituency, Zimbabwe rural area, employing Albert Bandura’s Social Learning Theory as a guiding framework. The research aimed to identify the underlying causes of drug abuse and explore potential solutions to mitigate its effects. Through purposive sampling, 15 participants were selected based on specific criteria such as gender, geographical location, and relevant experiences with Bronco drug abuse. This diverse group comprised six female learners aged 15 to 18, two teachers, two parents, a counsellor, a police officer, a Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education official, a parliamentarian, and a village head, ensuring a broad perspective on the issue. Data collection involved two focus group discussions—one for adolescents and another for adults—to create a safe space for open dialogue. Each discussion lasted 90 minutes and was semi-structured, allowing participants to share their experiences regarding the impact of Bronco drug abuse on their education. Thematic analysis, guided by Clarke and Braun’s framework, involved familiarization with the data, coding, and theme identification. The findings indicate that Bronco drug abuse severely undermines academic performance, leading to increased absenteeism and diminished motivation among affected learners. A key recommendation is to implement community-based intervention programs that provide educational support and resources for both adolescents and their families. Through addressing the social and environmental factors contributing to drug abuse, these initiatives can enhance educational resilience and improve academic outcomes for affected learners. Keywords: Bronco, Drug Abuse, Educational Attainment, Rural Female Adolescent, Zimbabwe