Reach A Hand Uganda (RAHU) has launched the Back-to-School Campaign to encourage students, particularly young mothers, to return to school.
Under the theme “Safe and Supported,” the campaign aligns with the National Sexuality Education Framework (NSEF) and the revised guidelines on the Prevention and Management of Teenage Pregnancy in School Settings. It advocates for a school re-entry approach for young mothers through educational interventions while fostering a supportive environment for all students, especially girls, to resume their education.
As part of the initiative, RAHU organized various activities to encourage school re-enrolment despite existing challenges. A survey conducted during the campaign revealed the following key barriers preventing young mothers from returning to school: 36% cited stigma after childbirth, 38% pointed to financial difficulties, 14% identified lack of childcare support and 12% mentioned inflexible school policies.
To address these challenges, RAHU held several activities, including a Back-to-School Walk in Lungujja, school outreach programs at St. Jannan SS in Kabalagala and Bwesumbu Peas High School in Kasese, as well as digital engagements with the public.
RAHU CEO, Humphrey Nabimanya, emphasized that stigma remains a major factor driving school dropouts due to fear of discrimination or bullying.
“This campaign, along with its theme, focuses on understanding students’ challenges and providing the necessary support without discrimination. This involves combating stigma, enhancing school policies, training teachers to be more supportive, and encouraging parents to act as pillars of support all of which help students feel comfortable returning to school,” he stated, adding that openly addressing these issues is crucial to breaking the stigma.
The campaign also provided a platform for RAHU peer educators to engage in community activities, offering them hands-on experience in creating positive change.
Masika Rinnah, one of the peer educators, shared her transformative journey through the academy, highlighting how the experience equipped her with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to make a real impact.
School dropout rates remain a major concern in Uganda. According to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), approximately 15% of girls aged 15-19 become pregnant, making teenage pregnancy one of the leading causes of school dropouts. Data from the Ministry of Education indicates that 25,000 schoolgirls dropped out due to pregnancy in 2020, with this number rising to 35,000 in 2021.
Recent media reports highlight that more than 3,100 pupils drop out of primary school daily, leading to over one million learners failing to sit for the Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) each year.
Through initiatives like the Back-to-School Campaign, RAHU continues to advocate for inclusive education policies and provide crucial support to young mothers and other students facing barriers to education.
