School dropout rate rises again in Odisha; around 15% students discontinued in 2024-25: Minister in Assembly

An alarming rise in school dropout rates has emerged in Odisha again, according to figures given by the School and Mass Education (S&ME) Minister Nityananda Gond in Legislative Assembly on Friday.

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Data for the 2024-25 academic year shows that nearly 15% of students have discontinued their studies. The highest dropout rates have been reported in Classes 9 and 10, with boys leaving school in greater numbers than girls.

While 12.5% of girls dropped out at the secondary level, the figure for boys stood at 17.3%. In upper primary Classes (6 to 8), the dropout rate is 3.2%, including 2.6% girls and 3.7% boys. At the primary level (Classes 1 to 5), the dropout rate remains relatively low at 0.7%.

After witnessing a steady decline between 2020 and 2024, the dropout rate has increased again in the academic year 2024-25.

Besides, the S&ME Minister informed that around 12,000 students remained absent from the matriculation examination. Authorities are analysing the reasons behind their absence, with many students reportedly skipping exams due to personal issues.

The government has stated that multiple measures are being taken to curb the dropout rate and ensure students remain in the education system.

“To prevent dropouts and ensure that everyone attends school, the government is taking various measures. A child tracking survey is being conducted to identify children up to 18 years of age who are staying at home instead of attending school,” the Minister said.

“To encourage children to return to the school, initiatives like 'Prabesh Utsav' and 'Khadi Chhuan' are being organised. The 'Asa School Jiba' (Let's Go to School) campaign is also currently underway,” Minister Gond expressed.

“I believe that in the coming days, everyone will become more aware of the importance of education. If any issues or deficiencies arise, we will certainly examine them. In the future, we will further raise awareness among those who are dropping out or not appearing for their exams,” the S&ME Minister asserted.

“The matter is being reviewed as to why the 12,000 students remained absent. Many students do not appear for exams due to personal reasons. The department had made all arrangements to ensure everyone could take the exam,” the Minister added.