The Minister of Education, Science and Technology, Hon Bright Msaka SC, has pledged to collaborate with the Women’s Legal Resource Centre (WORLEC) and Social Development Direct (SDDirect) as they undertake research to better understand public perceptions and experiences surrounding early and unintended pregnancy.
Msaka made the commitment on Tuesday in Lilongwe during a meeting with WORLEC to discuss the objectives of the study titled Research Informed Solutions for Early and Unintended Pregnancies (RISE UP).
The minister emphasised the importance of updating existing findings on the subject to ensure the country is equipped with current, evidence-based solutions to address the challenge. He noted that the outcomes of the research could play a critical role in shaping future policy decisions.
He further assured the organisations of government support, describing the study as timely and relevant to national development priorities.
Speaking at the meeting, WORLEC Executive Director, Maggie Kathewera Banda, said the research will explore emerging factors contributing to early and unintended pregnancies, including the influence of technology and popular culture.
Banda added that the findings will be used to inform programming and interventions aimed at reducing early pregnancies and improving outcomes for young people.
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