Health

The Struggle of Student Mothers in Universities

Written by Nyachae Brian on January 7, 2026

In Mosocho,a fast growing urban center in Kisii County, 45-year old Jackline calls her grandson a queer name, “Degree”

Curiosity drives me to find out why the name.

Jackline explains that she sent her firstborn daughter to university hoping she will help turn the fortunes for the family that is struggling with poverty. However while in campus, the 20-year old became pregnant and later gave birth to a baby girl

“The name reminds me the disappointment my daughter brought upon me,” Jackline narrates with heavy emotions

Her story reflects the reality faced by many university students in Kenya

Stigma beyond lecture halls

Student motherhood remains an unfortunate occurrence to many. It does not only result in academic disruption and social isolation, but also stigma that follows the young mothers to their homes and communities

Student mothers face uphill task balancing attending coursework, completing assignments, doing exams and providing motherly care to their children.

No wonder others are forced by circumstances to do abortion

Kisii University response

Recognizing the emerging challenge, Kisii University has planned to set up a lactation and baby care center in each floor of the Tuition Complex Building that is under construction

“Student mothers will have access to a safe and supervised environment for their children while they attend classes,” explained Prof. Nathan Ogechi who is the institution’s Vice Chancellor

Kisii University Vice Chancellor speaks during launch of baby care and lactation center. Photo/Brian

Ogechi was speaking during the launch of a baby care and lactation center already constructed in the university to serve children of staff members

The gender mainstreaming committee that spearheaded the project lauded the center as the right step towards employee wellness.

“An employee who is worried about a child will not be productive,” said a member of the committee

However, the big challenge remains how to ensure the high number of student mothers get similar services

Affordable childcare remains out of reach for many students. Such learners’ careers end up disrupted in their struggle to provide care for the young ones. This further perpetuates endless cycle of inequality

Gender equality is one of the sustainable development goals. For this to be realized, student motherhood must be addressed not only by university councils, but also by all stakeholders including the governmenthttps://www.linkedin.com/pulse/struggle-student-mothers-universities-egetuori-africa-vxp7f/?published=t