Topic "Why is there an increase in the dropout rates?

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Dropout rate definition

The dropout rate, also known as the school dropout rate, measures the number of students or
students leaving the education system before completing a specific amount of study or a
program. The dropout rate is usually calculated based on a specific period and can be
expressed as a percentage.
Moreover, the dropout rate is an important topic in the field of education because it affects
many aspects of individuals and society.

Reasons for the Increase in Dropout Rates

1. Consequences of the COVID-19 Pandemic
School closures: The pandemic forced some schools to close and become quarantine
locations or transition to online learning. This disruption in the learning process made it
challenging and less effective for some students. Online learning also requires a higher level
of self-management, and not everyone possesses the time management and focus needed for
it.

Family economic impact: The pandemic had significant economic consequences, causing job
losses and reducing family incomes. Job loss and difficulty finding new employment can lead
some young individuals to feel the immediate need to earn money to support their families,
rather than continuing their education. This can result in the decision to drop out.

2. Financial Issues
Tuition and educational costs: The significantly high costs of higher education and
specialized courses can create financial pressure on students and their families. Tuition fees
may continue to rise, and not everyone can afford them. Students may struggle to pay tuition
fees and other related educational costs.

Limited financial support: Financial aid from the government or educational institutions may
be limited, making it difficult for low-income individuals to pursue higher education.
Scholarship programs and financial support are not always sufficient to meet all students'
needs.

3. Social and Cultural Factors

Social inequality: Factors such as gender, race, and family background can lead to social
inequalities in education. This may include limited access to financial resources, scholarship
programs, or societal expectations regarding whether one should pursue education.

Family pressures: Some families may exert significant pressure on their children to earn
money and support the family rather than pursue higher education. Family responsibilities
and parental expectations can cause stress for students, leading them to temporarily drop out
to meet family needs.
4. Academic Pressure
Excessive academic pressure: Pressure to complete assignments, high-stakes exams, and
unrealistic societal expectations can cause stress and anxiety for students. At times, excessive
academic pressure can push individuals to decide to drop out to avoid this stress.

Poor academic performance: When a student feels that they cannot keep up with the
coursework or achieve the desired academic results, they may lose confidence and decide to
drop out. Poor academic performance can result from various factors, including inadequate
study skills, lack of support, or personal difficulties.

Consequences of Rising Dropout Rates

1. Economic and Personal Future:

a. Reduced Income Potential: Individuals who drop out of school often lack the knowledge
and skills required to participate in the modern economy. This reduces their potential to earn
higher incomes, and they frequently end up in low-paying manual labor jobs.

b. Limited Career Opportunities: With low educational attainment, dropouts have fewer
opportunities to engage in developing, high-income fields. Their chances of career
advancement are also restricted, and they may face discrimination in employment and
promotions.

c. Difficulty in Establishing a Family: Limited financial prospects can impact an individual's

ability to start a family and provide for their children. This can lead to stress and pressure
within family life.

d. Higher Risk of Unemployment: Due to a lack of skills and qualifications, dropouts are at a
higher risk of losing their jobs or facing unemployment, particularly during economic
downturns.

2. Social and Cultural Impacts:

a. Increased Crime and Social Issues: Dropouts often face social challenges and have a
higher risk of becoming victims or perpetrators of crime. They are more likely to be involved
in drug-related issues, crime, and harmful social activities.

b. Social Inequality: Increasing dropout rates contribute to social inequality, as a portion of

the population lacks access to education and its associated social benefits. This can lead to
social tension and conflicts.

c. Loss of Knowledge and Cultural Traditions: Dropping out can result in a loss of cultural
knowledge and values within a community. Young dropouts may not be equipped with the
knowledge and skills to preserve and contribute to their cultural heritage, leading to cultural
loss and homogenization within society.

Solutions and Policies

1. Enhancing Financial Support:
a. Scholarships and Tuition Aid: Create basic or need-based scholarship programs, based on
academic performance or students' financial circumstances.
b. Low or Interest-Free Student Loans: Provide low-interest or interest-free student loans to
help students and their families cover tuition fees without significant financial burden.
c. Part-Time Work Programs: Support part-time job opportunities for students to supplement
their income and cover their educational and daily living expenses.
d. Support for Talented and Special Needs Students: Offer special financial support for
talented students or those with special needs to help them reach their maximum potential.

2. Creating Better Learning Conditions:

a. Creating Comfortable and Effective Learning Environments: Invest in infrastructure,
classrooms, libraries, and educational materials to establish conducive learning conditions.
b. Academic and Psychological Counseling Support: Provide academic and psychological
counseling services to help students address academic challenges and study-related stress.
c. Encourage Extracurricular Activities: Provide opportunities for students to participate in
extracurricular activities such as clubs, sports teams, music, and arts to develop social and
creative skills.

3. Introducing Diverse Learning Programs:

a. Diverse Course Selection: Expand the range of available courses to allow students to
choose from various academic disciplines, including non-traditional subjects.
b. Experiential Learning: Offer experiential and interactive learning programs that allow
students to learn from real-world experiences.
c. Collaboration with External Organizations: Partner with external organizations and
businesses to provide practical educational programs and internship opportunities.

Conclusion
Addressing this issue is crucial because the rising dropout rate can lead to several negative
consequences. It can result in a shortage of qualified workforce, contribute to increased
unemployment, and reduce economic opportunities for individuals. Moreover, it also leads to
a waste of resources since students who drop out often invest a significant amount of money
in their education. Solving this problem requires collaboration between various stakeholders,
including educational institutions, families, and communities, to provide financial support,
counseling, and a more conducive learning environment for students.