Two students give birth prior to UCE Exams, highlighting challenges faced by young mothers

In a recent development, it has been reported that two female students gave birth shortly before their Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) examinations, shedding light on the difficulties encountered by young mothers in pursuing their education.

According to UNEB officials the two senior four candidates gave birth shortly before their Chemistry and physics exams that were scheduled on Monday and Tuesday subsequently.

However according to UNEB executive director Daniel Odongo the candidate from Gulu delivered via caesarean section on Monday night and then appeared on Tuesday morning to write her Chemistry exam.

He added that the two bring the total number of candidates who gave birth since UCE exams began last week to three.

Meanwhile the ministry of Education last year directed all schools with pregnant candidates to permit them to take their exams provided they had registered for them.

Recognizing the importance of supporting these students in their educational journey, school authorities, in collaboration with relevant government bodies and NGOs, have stepped forward to address the situation. Meanwhile Efforts are being made to provide necessary assistance, including counseling, academic guidance.

The incident has sparked a broader discussion on the need for comprehensive support systems and policies that address the unique challenges faced by young mothers in their pursuit of education.

It highlights the importance of ensuring that pregnant students and young mothers have access to appropriate resources, including healthcare, child care facilities, and social support networks.

Educational institutions, government agencies, and civil society organizations are now actively working together to develop and implement strategies that promote equal educational opportunities for all, regardless of gender or parental status.

These efforts aim to create an inclusive environment that supports young mothers in continuing their education while simultaneously fulfilling their responsibilities as parents.

It is crucial to recognize the resilience and determination displayed by these young mothers in their quest for education as their stories serve as a reminder of the significant barriers they face and the need for a compassionate and supportive approach within the education system.

The occurrence of two students giving birth before their UCE exams sheds light on the challenges faced by young mothers in pursuing their education.