Lived Experiences of Pregnant Students in Tertiary Institutions: A Case of Bindura University

Author

Chiutsi, Brian.

Title

Lived Experiences of Pregnant Students in Tertiary Institutions: A Case of Bindura University

Abstract

Pregnancy can be a great experience. However, for some, it is not especially when they are still
students. Pregnant student experience many challenges and little is known about their experiences.
They experience problems which include psychological challenges, academic challenges and
socio-economic challenges. Thus, pregnant students need support from their lecturers, family
members and friends to cope. The purpose of this study was to examine the lived experiences of
pregnant students studying with Bindura University as a case study. The study was conducted at
Bindura University of Science Education & Technology, which is situated in Mashonaland Central
Province about 88km north east of the capital city. A qualitative approach, using a case study
design was used for this study. A sample size of 22 participants was selected from the targeted
population through purposive and inconvenience sampling techniques. The data for the study was
collected through in-depth and key informant interviews. Thematic analysis was used to analyze
the data. The findings show that pregnant students studying with Bindura University encounter
countless experiences such as maternal stress, inability to cope, poor concentration, low self-esteem, absenteeism and poor performance. In addition, pregnant students relied on social support
they received from friends, family and their male partners to cope. The study therefore
recommends that the institution should offer adequate services to pregnant students such as
attending Antenatal Care (ANC) at the university clinic to reduce the likelihood of absenteeism
and dropout rate among pregnant students. Pregnant student should be oriented about the services
available to them such as counselling.

Date

2023

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Students

Pregnancy

Lived experience

Supervisor

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