Effect of Teenage Pregnancy On Girls' Child Education in Selected Secondary Schools In Ekiti State, Nigeria

This study examines the effect of teenage pregnancy on girls' education in selected secondary schools in Oye Local Government, Ekiti State, Nigeria. The study aimed to identify home environmental factors contributing to high teenage pregnancy rates, ascertain if pregnant school girls can cope with academic demands, and determine the impact of teenage pregnancy on their academic performance. A descriptive survey research design was employed, targeting secondary school students in Oye Ekiti Local Government. A sample of 200 students from ten randomly selected schools participated, and data were collected using a researcher-developed questionnaire. The instrument's validity was ensured through expert review and reliability through a test-retest method, yielding high internal consistency. Results indicated that poor family background, separation of parents, poverty, lack of parental care, and low parental education levels significantly contribute to teenage pregnancy. The study also revealed that pregnant school girls struggle to cope with academic demands, relying heavily on parental and peer support. The findings showed that teenage pregnancy adversely affects academic performance, with many pregnant girls performing poorly and facing a high risk of dropping out. The study highlighted the psychosocial challenges these students face, including stigmatization and lack of support, further exacerbating their educational difficulties. In conclusion, teenage pregnancy significantly hinders the educational development of girls in Oye Local Government. Recommendations include providing adequate psychosocial resources in schools, implementing policies to prevent underage sex, and enhancing community awareness programs to address teenage pregnancy. These measures are essential to support pregnant school girls and mitigate the negative impact on their education. Keywords: Teenage Pregnancy, Girls, Child Education, Secondary Schools,