Understanding female student dropout in Dhaka, Bangladesh: secondary school teachers’ perspectives on contributing factors

Khandakar, Ayesha Sheddika and Kamarulzaman, Wirawani (2025) Understanding female student dropout in Dhaka, Bangladesh: secondary school teachers’ perspectives on contributing factors. International Journal of Advanced Research in Education and Society, 7 (2). pp. 304-312. E-ISSN 2682-8138

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Abstract

The persistent issue of female dropout from secondary schools in Bangladesh continues to hinder gender equality in education and overall societal development. This study investigates the perspectives of secondary school teachers to uncover the key factors contributing to this challenge. A qualitative analysis of semi-structured interviews reveals that socio-economic hardships, early marriage, safety concerns, inadequate school infrastructure, and deeply embedded cultural norms are among the primary reasons for female students leaving school. The COVID-19 pandemic further intensified the situation, exacerbating financial instability, increasing child marriages, and prolonging educational disengagement. Although government initiatives, such as stipends and free education, have made strides in addressing the problem, their effectiveness is limited by resource constraints, infrastructural deficiencies, and a lack of teacher readiness for digital learning. This study highlights the urgency of targeted policies that tackle both systemic and societal barriers to education. Future research could extend these findings by examining dropout trends in different regions, incorporating student and family perspectives, and evaluating the long-term impact of the pandemic. By offering a nuanced understanding of this issue, the study provides a foundation for shaping more effective educational policies and interventions.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	female dropout, secondary education, Bangladesh education system, socio-cultural barriers, COVID-19 impact on education
Subjects:	L Education > L Education (General) L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB1050.9 Educational psychology L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB1603 Secondary Education. High schools
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Education > Department of Educational Psychology & Counseling Kulliyyah of Education
Depositing User:	Dr Wirawani Kamarulzaman
Date Deposited:	04 Aug 2025 12:12
Last Modified:	04 Aug 2025 12:12
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/122435

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