Poverty and school dropouts in secondary schools in

Abstract

The study aimed at evaluating the effects of Poverty on School Dropouts in Secondary Schools in Mijwala Sub County in Sembabule District and specifically to ascertain the socioeconomic factors contributing to school dropout among secondary school students in Mijwala Sub County, assess the prevalence and patterns of school dropout among secondary school students in Mijwala Sub County, Sembabule district and to examine effective strategies and interventions for addressing poverty-related barriers to education and reducing school dropout rates among secondary school students in Mijwala Sub County. Phenomenological Research Design was employed to explore and understand the lived experiences and perceptions of teachers, Head teachers, and school dropouts residing in Mijwala Sub County regarding the phenomenon of school dropout influenced by poverty. Results indicate that poverty significantly impacts students' educational outcomes, highlighting multifaceted challenges including financial constraints, family challenges, and curriculum issues influencing school dropout rates, emphasizing the need for expanded scholarships covering essential expenses, tailored vocational training, consistent mentorship, and improved infrastructure and support services. The study recommends conducting socioeconomic surveys, enhancing community engagement, expanding scholarship opportunities, improving school feeding programs, implementing vocational training, and enhancing mentorship to reduce secondary school dropout rates in Mijwala Sub County.