The Forum for African Women Educationalists of Zambia (FAWEZA) says the rate at which girls are dropping out of school every year is worrisome.
FAWEZA Executive Director Costern Kanchele discloses that over 16,000 girls drop out of school every year in Zambia due to early marriages and teenage pregnancies.
Mr. Kanchele said in an interview that there is need for increased advocacy by the media in changing the mindset of youths especially girl child that are deprived the right to school as a result of early marriages and teenage pregnancies.
He also revealed that only 27 percent of girls in the country try complete Grade 12 in Zambia despite their high enrolment rate in schools.
Mr. Kachele further revealed lack of information among young girls concerning Sexual Reproductive High Rates has contributed to high levels of early marriages hence the need for more advocacy on the subject by media houses.
He says there is need for media houses to identify effects that make youths vulnerable and effectively advocate for the change that is needed for the marginalised groups such as the girl child.
