NAVIGATING THE DUAL ROLES: UNDERSTANDING THE UNIQUE CHALLENGES OF STUDENT-MOTHERS IN PURSUIT OF HIGHER EDUCATIO

This research delves into the experiences of student-mothers pursuing higher education, uncovering the challenges they face, strategies they employ, and insights gained. This qualitative phenomenological research explores student-mothers' experiences and how they adapt to the changing demands of higher education. This study highlights the complex issues faced by student-mothers, their coping mechanisms and insights gained, by thoroughly examining key informant interviews. Student-mothers navigate the complex dual roles of being both students and mothers, contending with the daily hassles, hard work, constant pressure, and a distinct sense of difference compared to full-time learners. These challenges are compounded by the demands of motherhood, resulting in absenteeism from classes, difficulty focusing on academic tasks, time management struggles, fatigue, and a shortage of time for their children. To cope, student-mothers utilize strategies such as effective time management, seeking understanding from instructors, self-motivation, and financial management. Further, they gain insights into the importance of diligent work in balancing their roles, imparting the value of education to their children, and the belief that they can achieve their goals through hard work. This study's findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the unique experiences of student-mothers, informing the development of support systems and policies to enhance their educational journey and outcomes.