Navigating education and parenthood: Teenage mothers' support systems in Namibia's Omusati region

This research explored the experiences of teenage mothers enrolled in schools in the Omusati region of Namibia. The study examines how they perceive and navigate the support systems available to them in their ecological context. The researchers used a qualitative approach to collect data from 16 participants through individual interviews, focus group discussions, and reflective journaling. The data was analysed using Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory as a framework, to examine the interactions between the teen mothers’ ecological systems. The results suggest that family members play a crucial role in helping the girls to balance their roles as mothers and learners. The study concludes by emphasizing the importance of support systems to help mothers-learners achieve educational and personal goals, and highlights the implications of this research for policymakers, educators, and organizations seeking to create inclusive and supportive environments for teen mothers pursuing education.