The Challenges Encountered by Single-Parented Students on Their Secondary School Education in Msalato Ward, Dodoma Municipality-Tanzania

This study investigated the challenges encountered by single-parented students and how these challenges affect education in secondary schools within Msalato Ward, Dodoma Municipality, Tanzania. In the context of a rising number of single-parent households driven by factors such as divorce, death, and socio-economic hardship students are increasingly vulnerable to academic setbacks. The research employed a descriptive survey design involving 86 single-parented students selected through purposive and simple random sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews with teachers and counselors. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS, while qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis. Findings revealed that single-parented students face a range of academic challenges, with the most prevalent being financial constraints, emotional and psychological distress, limited parental care, and reduced access to counseling services. A significant proportion of respondents confirmed that these students often struggle to afford tuition fees and educational materials. Interestingly, socialization was not identified as a major challenge, suggesting that peer interaction remains relatively unaffected. The study recommends for the government, NGOs, and local communities to establish targeted financial aid schemes specifically for students from single-parent families. The implementation of school-based counseling programs, financial aid schemes, parental engagement initiatives, and peer mentorship systems. These measures are vital to promoting equity and academic resilience among students from single-parent families.