Predictors of Student Dropout: A Discriminant Analysis of Muslim and Non-Muslim students in Higher Education in the Malabar Regions of Kerala

Educational attainment plays a crucial role in shaping human capital and social development, but student dropouts remain a persistent issue, particularly in marginalized communities This study applies discriminant analysis to examine the differences between Muslim and non-Muslim student dropouts in the higher education sector of the Malabar region of Kerala. Using primary data, the analysis evaluates the influence of variables such as standard of living, marriage, parental attitude, economic condition, health issues, job prospects, exam results, and students’ aspirations to continue education. The results indicate that marriage, parental attitude, standard of living, and health issues are the strongest predictors of dropout disparities between Muslims and non-Muslims. While Muslim students generally performed well academically and demonstrated a willingness to pursue higher education, parental objection and early marriage significantly hindered their continuation. Poor economic condition affected 24.8% of non-Muslims but only 5.2% of Muslims affected it. The findings underscore the importance of community and parental awareness programs to reduce dropout rates and foster equal educational opportunities.