EDUCATIONAL PROBLEMS AND NEEDS OF TRIBAL STUDENTS AT THE SECONDARY LEVEL IN ALIPURDUAR DISTRICT, WEST BENGAL, INDIA

India is home to over 84.4 million tribal people, or Adivasis, who represent some of the country's poorest communities, still reliant on traditional practices such as hunting, agriculture, and fishing, with distinct cultures, languages, and lifestyles. In West Bengal's Alipurduar District, over 80% of the population belongs to ethnic tribes. This study investigates the educational problems and needs of secondary-level tribal students in Alipurduar, focusing on gender differences. A survey of 60 students was conducted using the standardized "Educational Problems Questionnaire" and a self-developed "Educational Needs Questionnaire." The findings revealed that 51% of students face challenges in teaching methods, 54% in the social and educational environment, 56% in organizational and administrative issues, and 59% due to cultural and historical factors. Additionally, 48% of respondents expressed educational needs related to school education, 55% expressed societal support, and 44% expressed family involvement. These results underscore the importance of addressing the specific educational challenges faced by tribal students to promote equitable learning outcomes.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0710/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>