Beyond the Horizon: Understanding Rural Secondary School Dropout through Case Studies

Despite numerous initiatives targeted to improve education outcomes, secondary school dropout rates in rural India remain a tenacious challenge. This paper sheds light on the underlying causes of dropout rates in rural areas through a qualitative case study approach. Drawing on in-depth interviews with rural students and their parents, this study examines the interplay of poverty, gender disparities, lack of access to quality education, and social expectations that contribute to students' decisions to leave school. The findings disclose the nuanced and complex ways various dynamics intersect and influence a student's educational trajectory. By exploring the personal, familial, and community factors that shape educational experiences, this study intends to contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the dropout phenomenon in rural India. The findings have implications for policymakers, educators, and community leaders seeking operative strategies to address this prominent issue.