Análise das causas do abandono escolar: Caso de alunos da 10a classe da Escola Secundária de Magoanine Cidade de Maputo, no período de 2022 á 2023

Abstract

School dropout is a pressing issue affecting education in Mozambique, particularly at Magoanine Secondary School, where the dropout rate among 10th-grade students increased from 8.4% in 2022 to 14.7% in 2023. This study aims to analyse the causes of school dropout among 10th-grade students at this school, focusing on identifying, describing, and characterising these causes, as well as examining the measures taken by the school community to address them. The research adopts a qualitative and descriptive approach, with a sample of five participants, including students, teachers, and school administrators. Data were collected through interviews. The findings revealed that the main causes of school dropout include early pregnancy, academic difficulties, family problems, and the need for students to work to support their families. The impacts of dropping out are evident, such as involvement in criminal activities, future learning difficulties, and low self-esteem. To combat dropout, the study suggests measures such as educational workshops, student counselling, meetings with parents, the creation of educational incentive projects, peer support groups, and the provision of scholarships for financially vulnerable students. The study concludes that strategic actions involving the entire school community are essential to ensure students remain in school until the completion of secondary education.