In Kajiado County, Greenland Girls School is pioneering a unique approach by offering education to teenage mothers, many of whom attend classes with their infants. The boarding school has adapted classrooms and dormitories to accommodate both students and their babies, creating an environment where motherhood and learning coexist.
For many young women ostracized by families or communities, the school provides a vital second chance. According to a 2015 study by the Population Council, two-thirds of teenage mothers in Kenya drop out of school due to pregnancy, highlighting the importance of programs that allow them to resume their education.
School officials note that the students often face social stigma and rejection, making specialized institutions like Greenland Girls critical for providing both academic and emotional support. Health and development experts emphasize that re-entry policies and targeted programs are essential to closing education gaps and promoting equity for adolescent mothers.
The need for such institutions is underscored by recent statistics showing that over 125,000 babies were born to girls under 19 in Kenya in 2024. By accommodating both education and childcare, Greenland Girls School demonstrates how tailored educational programs can empower teenage mothers to continue learning while building a future for themselves and their children.
