When child marriage and child welfare intersect: Understanding the barriers to education

Author: Mbamba, Crispin Rakibu; Yeboaa, Portia; Gyimah, Clinton & Mccarthy, Mary

Abstract: In this study, we investigate the factors that contribute to the discontinuity of education when girls marry as children. Using semi-structured qualitative interviews, we gathered the views of 11 girls with experience in child marriages in Ghana. Narratives were analysed thematically following reflexive thematic analysis procedures. The study identified: (1) Insistence of husbands for girls to stay at home (2) Stigmatization and ridicule (3) Stress as factors leading to educational discontinuity. The study suggests an intensification of sensitization campaigns in rural communities on the dangers of child marriage and ways to make schools welcome for those married.

Keywords: child marriage, child welfare, education, Ghana