The Influences of Dropout Rate Among Primary School Learners

Abstract

Aim: The main aim of this study is to examine the factors that influence learners to drop out of school. The ever-increasing rate of primary school dropouts is of great concern as it has negatively impacted on education in the area. The education system as well as the community has over the years been affected in various ways. School dropouts become liabilities to the community as they are not able to contribute maximally to nation building. In most cases the dropouts engage in anti-social criminal activities. Materials and methods: This research study employed a qualitative research design, using focus group interviews and field notes to succeed in investigating the causal factors of learner dropouts. Purposive sampling was used for the research because it was convenient for the research in terms of time. Results: The findings revealed that learner dropout is, inter alia, caused by school and home related factors, lack of parental involvement was found to drive learners away from schools and into the streets. Due to poor financial situations learners leave school and are forced into child labour to better their family living conditions. Finally, the study concludes that primary school learners should be encouraged to complete at least their primary level education.