Public Perception of Social Determinants and Consequences of Male Dropout of Schools in Anambra State of Southeast Nigeria

Abstract

This original research paper examined the causes and effects of the problem of male dropout of schools in Anambra State, located at the Southeast area of Nigeria. Multistage and simple random techniques were combined to select 180 respondents for the quantitative data while purposive approach was used to select 4 key informants which included community and religious leaders, an official of the State Ministry of Education and a teacher. Questionnaire and Key Informant schedules were the tools used for data collection while control theory served as theoretical framework. The study revealed that male dropout from schools is widespread in Anambra state. Social factors contributory to the problem include: parents’ socio-economic status, post school employment uncertainty, quest for quick wealth syndrome, peer pressure, parents’ perception towards education among others. The paper recommended that basic education should be made truly free by government, and that more extracurricular activities be accommodated in schools while second chance programmes for dropouts should be made available, accessible and affordable. Post school unemployment should also be addressed.