Student Dropout: The Case of Government Schools in South Ethiopia Region

Abstract

Attainment of targets set to control dropout was by far behind in the government schools in Ethiopia. Thus, this study was designed in order to address student dropout experienced in the study area. The study employed mixed research method and parallel convergent design. Data were collected from students, teachers, parents and related stakeholders. The quantitative data were analyzed using mean, independent samples t-test and pearson’s correlation, whereas the qualitative ones through narration. The study revealed that the overall dropout status was moderate yet varying with the types of the community’s economic activity. Factors of dropout among the pastoralist community and that of agrarian and cash crop production areas also vary accordingly. Thus, developing community engagement project involving essential collaborators was suggested for intervening with the challenges identified. Further rigorous studies need also be conducted to intensify and scale up the impact.