As explained in my earlier post, my research primarily uses internet data and advanced AI techniques to uncover the hidden concerns of teenagers and their caretakers—topics often too sensitive for open discussion. However, to truly understand the issue, I’ve found it crucial to meet those affected face-to-face.
I recently visited the Nyagatare District in eastern Rwanda, where I had the opportunity to speak with over 30 teen mothers. Most of these young women, around 17 years old, had to leave school due to unexpected pregnancies. The consequences of their situations extend far beyond immediate health concerns. Many face social ostracization, receiving little to no support from their families. Some are directly or indirectly shunned by their communities.
One young mother, let’s call her Marie, shared her story. At 16, she discovered she was pregnant and had to drop out of school. “I felt like my whole world collapsed,” she told me, her eyes downcast. “My parents were so disappointed; they barely spoke to me for months.”
Despite the sadness permeating our conversations—dreams put on hold, educations cut short, futures altered—I was struck by these young women’s resilience. Marie, for instance, has started a small business selling homemade snacks and serves as an MTN Mobile Money agent, where she earns a small commission facilitating money transactions. “It’s not what I imagined for myself,” she said, “but I’m determined to provide for my child and maybe, one day, return to school.”
These personal encounters have deepened my understanding of the issue in ways that data alone cannot capture. They’ve highlighted the complex web of social, economic, and cultural factors that contribute to and result from adolescent pregnancy.
Moving forward, my research will continue to harness the power of data and AI to identify trends and potential interventions. But these face-to-face meetings have underscored the importance of combining technological approaches with on-the-ground insights.