Role of Social Workers in Reducing School Dropouts

A significant number of children in India drop out of school each year. This issue negatively impacts the country's literacy rate, economic growth, and social development. School dropouts are defined as students who enrolled in school but left before completing their last level of education. Despite efforts such as the Right to Education Act (2009) and the National Policy on Education, school dropout remains a persistent challenge. Students often leave school due to financial hardships, family responsibilities, or lack of motivation. This study highlights the vital role of social workers in addressing this issue. School social workers help prevent dropouts by identifying at-risk students, building supportive relationships, assessing needs, working with school staff and families, and addressing personal or social problems that hinder learning. This paper explores the causes of school dropouts, particularly in Karnataka, and emphasizes the need for more research in this area. There is a gap in understanding how social workers can effectively support students with special needs and collaborate with key stakeholders. To create lasting change, it is essential to include social workers in policy and decision-making related to education and student welfare.