Navigating School Re-Entry for Teen Mothers in Arua District, Uganda

Abstract Uganda's 2020 Education Re-entry Policy supports teenage mothers to resume schooling after pregnancy, yet re-enrollment remains low. In a qualitative case study in two public secondary schools in Arua District, we identified key barriers to be inadequate guidance, stigma, discrimination, irregular attendance, limited knowledge and resources, and forced marriage. We recommend boosting teen mothers’ self-esteem through personalized counseling, mental health support, and community awareness of the value of education. Strengthening these areas can enhance policy implementation and help policymakers and practitioners improve monitoring and educational reintegration for teenage mothers.