Challenges of Students Mother in Higher Education

A Narrative Literature Review of Sub-Saharan Africa Context

Abstract

Student mothers pursuing higher education face multiple challenges, including in Sub Saharan Africa (SSA). Despite the challenges they encounter, limited comprehensive review has been done on academic, social and economic challenges they experience while pursuing their studies in higher education in SSA. This study was guided by Role Strain Theory and the Ethic or Care Theory. It reviewed 21 empirical studies published between 2013 to 2025 from Kenya, Uganda, South Africa, Namibia, Ghana, Nigeria, and Tanzania. The findings indicates that the challenges facing student’s mothers are interconnected. First, academic challenges including limited concentrations in classroom and limited time, which can lead to poor academic performance. Second, financial challenges include cost of childcare. Finally, social challenges include isolation and stigmatization. The findings support role strain theory, as evidenced by participants' experiences of overload, due to time constrains, and multiple responsibilities related to academic work and child caring. The findings also align with the ethic of care theory which call institutions support. The study recommends special consideration, flexibility and financial support as well as providing facilities for student’s mothers to enable them to complete their study. This is necessarily due to their unique need, to ensure equity and good education outcomes.