Impact Of Unplanned Pregnancy On Student’s Social And Academic Performance; A Case Study Of Maasai Mara University

Abstract

ABSTRACT The issue of unplanned pregnancy in higher institutions of learning is quite prevalent. This research therefore seeks to study the effects the unplanned pregnancy has on the social and academic life of students in Maasai Mara University. From the background information, the issue in no longer a new agenda but a common problem that needs to be addressed. It therefore does so guided by the objectives which are to identify problems experienced by pregnant and nursing/breastfeeding students, the impact on their social and academic life, the policies and programs offered to them by the university and enquire how they cope with their situation. Related literature from UK, north Ireland, South Africa and Kenya is reviewed which identifies the researchers have failed to acknowledge that pregnant and breastfeeding students face many problems and hence they should be helped to deal with them rather than being ridiculed. The research design used is data collection is survey which involves studying 30 students who represent the sample of the population which were selected through opportunity sampling procedure. Questionnaires are the instrument used which provides data that is later analyzed through excel spreadsheet and presented in tables, graphs and charts in chapter four. Findings shows that 90% of student’s social and academic life is impacted negatively due to the many pregnancy and motherhood related problems. Unfortunately, the university has no programs that help them cope with the situation. This study therefore recommends that the school need to recognize that that is an issue like any other and hence come up with ways to help those students.