Academic Challenges Facing Pregnant Students at the Ada College of Education, Ghana

Abstract

The study sought to find out the support system put in place at the Ada College of Education to create a conducive learning environment for pregnant students. This work is hinged on the social theory of humanism by Kwame Gyekye, which is centered on catering for the individual’s welfare, interest, and dignity in Ghanaian society. Through an unstructured interview guide whilst employing the interpretive approach, data gathered on the life of pregnant students in the college was interpreted. The study revealed that the academic programme is very stressful for pregnant students. There is also virtually no room for relaxation which is much needed. This is coupled with the fact that certain tutors do not treat pregnant students with care but rather embarrass them for their condition. These and other issues make the college quite unsafe, especially for students who are pregnant women and not married students. The study thus recommends that the Ministry of Education and the school authorities need to address some of these challenges pregnant students face at the College. This study contributes to the existing research done on the welfare of students with various health conditions. Keywords: Pregnant Students, Environment of Care, Academic support and engagement.