Don’t drop out of school if you are pregnant. It will make your future less bright.

For a long time if a girl fell pregnant at school she would be expelled. This meant many girls would drop out of school if they found out they were pregnant. Some girls felt ashamed to attend school while others wanted to become a full-time mother. Others found their family put pressure on them or other learners or teachers shamed them.

In Namibia we have a “Prevention and Management of learner pregnancy policy” that allows learners to re-enter the school system after falling pregnant. . This policy encourages young women to remain in school while pregnant and to come back when they are ready after having a baby.

This means that if you get pregnant, you are allowed to stay in school for as long as you are willing and able, and are allowed to return to class as soon as you feel you’re able to! Nobody can stop you, but a school might try. If you feel unwelcome you need to speak to the Regional school counsellor, life skills teacher or the principal. Remind them of your legal rights. If they are the culprit, take it to the regional office. Nobody can stop you attending school.

Babies grow up. They cost money. You need to complete your education as it means you can get a better job to give you and your baby a better life. If you want a shining future you need to fight for your right to better yourself through education.