Psychosocial support (PSS) is indispensable in education, particularly for students facing personal challenges that may disrupt their learning. At Chitawotawo Primary School, the Girls Get Equal project implemented crucial training for Mother Group members in providing effective PSS. This initiative aimed to address barriers like absenteeism, early marriages, and other socio-emotional issues hindering students’ educational progress.
Rhoda Lakatika, Chairperson of the local mother group, reflected on the transformative effect of the training:
“Before the Girls Get Equal project, our mother group lacked the skills to support students who were absent or at risk of dropping out due to various personal challenges,” Lakatika recalled.
The training equipped them to conduct community outreach during school hours, identifying reasons for absenteeism such as poverty and cultural practices like early marriages. These insights were crucial in understanding and addressing root causes effectively.
Elube (not real name), a dedicated 14-year-old student preparing for her Primary School Leaving Certificate Examinations, abruptly stopped attending school. Lakatika described their initial encounter.
“We learned Elube had decided to drop out to marry a businessman. This was alarming given her academic potential,” Lakatika shared.
The mother group mobilized swiftly, engaging with Elube’s family to advocate for her continued education. They sensitized her mother and the prospective groom about the importance of education and the legal implications of child marriage. Their efforts extended to providing emotional support and
guidance to Elube during this challenging time.
“We emphasized to Elube and her family that education opens doors to a brighter future,” Lakatika emphasized.
Bardwell Kachepa, the school’s headteacher, emphasized the importance of creating a supportive school environment.
“We rallied teachers and students to support Elube and not to stigmatize her. We encouraged her to persevere in her studies,” Kachepa affirmed.
With ongoing support from the mother group and the school community, Elube made the courageous decision to return to school, putting her marriage plans on hold. She resumed her studies with renewed determination, ultimately sitting for her exams and achieving her academic goals.
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