IDENTIFICATION OF SOCIO -ECONOMIC FACTORS AFFECTING STUDENTS DROPOUT RATE AT PRIMARY LEVEL

Abstract

Student dropout at the primary level remains a critical educational challenge with long-term consequences for individuals and societies. This study investigated the socio-economic factors influencing dropout in primary schools. A structured questionnaire consisting of 20 Likert-scale items was administered to a sample of 260 participants, including 20 school heads, 120 guardians, and 120 students. Descriptive statistics, mean scores, and percentages were analyzed to identify key trends.

The findings revealed that dropout is shaped by multiple, interrelated factors. Parental education and literacy were found to strongly enhance attendance, homework support, and retention, while illiteracy contributed to absenteeism and disengagement. Poverty and financial constraints emerged as primary drivers, often pushing children into labor to supplement family income. Occupational instability and large family size further divided resources, making consistent schooling difficult. Health and nutrition were also critical, with malnourished and chronically ill children showing poor performance and higher dropout risks. Environmental barriers such as long distances to schools, lack of transport, and unsafe school environments discouraged attendance, while bullying and lack of facilities pushed students out. Community pressures, including cultural norms and early marriage, disproportionately affected girls’ education. Meanwhile, inadequate government support in scholarships, school meals, and monitoring lowered retention, and low student motivation further accelerated dropout.

The study concludes that primary-level dropout is a multidimensional problem requiring integrated solutions. Targeted recommendations include parental literacy programs, conditional cash transfers, school infrastructure upgrades, nutritional support, community awareness campaigns, and stronger government policies. Addressing these factors collectively will not only reduce dropout but also ensure more equitable access to education, particularly for vulnerable and marginalized group.