ANALYTICS OF ACADEMIC DROPOUT AMONG SPM STUDENTS: CONTRIBUTING FACTORS AND YOUTHS’ PERSPECTIVES ON THE RELEVANCE OF SPM IN THE MODERN ERA

Academic dropout among Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) students is becoming an alarming issue within Malaysia’s education system. This study aims to identify the primary contributing factors that lead students to disengage from their studies before completing the SPM examination, and to explore youth perspectives on the relevance of SPM in the modern era. A quantitative approach was employed through the distribution of questionnaires to 150 respondents comprising current and former secondary school students. The findings reveal that emotional pressure, family financial constraints, lack of interest in academics, and peer influence are among the key factors influencing academic dropout. Additionally, the study highlights differing youth perspectives regarding the significance of SPM—while many students still view it as an important gateway to higher education, others question the effectiveness of traditional examination systems in preparing students for the challenges of a modern, dynamic world. The outcomes of this study are expected to assist stakeholders, including the Ministry of Education, schools, and parents, in developing more holistic strategies to address academic dropout and enhance the relevance of student assessment methods.