Strategy of Education Office in Completing Compulsory Basic Education in District of Waigeo Barat Daratan Raja Ampat

This study is significant because it addresses the critical issue of secondary school dropout rates in Raja Ampat, a region with unique geographic and socio-economic challenges. By evaluating the strategies of the Department of Education, identifying key contributing factors, and assessing intervention efforts, this study provides actionable insights to improve education policies and programs. This study was conducted in 2024 using data collection techniques using observation, interviews, and documentation. The validity of the data in this study used qualitative methods, so that validity testing using triangulation techniques was carried out by including time for observation, interviews, and documentation. These findings can help policymakers, educators, and local stakeholders in designing targeted solutions to improve access to and completion of compulsory basic education, which ultimately drives long-term social and economic development in underserved island communities. This study uncovers gaps in policy implementation, such as a 30% shortage in teacher coverage and only 40% of schools meeting facility standards, while identifying root causes such as poverty (where 60% of dropouts cited financial constraints) and remote access (45% of villages do not have adequate school infrastructure). Despite these challenges, the Pursuit School Program increased enrollment by 200 students in West Waigeo District (2022–2023) and the study findings suggest that the Department of Education’s strategy for completing compulsory education is still lacking. In addition, this study contributes to SDG 4 (Quality Education) by advocating for context-specific solutions to reduce gaps in completion of compulsory education, offering a model for similar areas facing similar challenges.