EDUCATIONAL PROBLEMS AND DROPOUT AMONG SC & ST STUDENTS IN BOUDH DISTRICT, ODISHA: A STUDY WITH REFERENCE TO THE SC & ST DEPARTMENT

Abstract

This study examines the educational problems leading to dropout among Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) students in Boudh District, Odisha, with specific reference to the role of the SC & ST Department. Data were collected from 45 dropout students (21 SC, 24 ST), 30 parents, 12 teachers, and 5 departmental officers using semi-structured interviews and document analysis. Findings indicate that economic pressure, late scholarship disbursement, caste-based discrimination in schools, and lack of coordination between the department and schools are the main causes of dropout. The department’s interventions are largely reactive and administrative. The study suggests timely scholarship release, regular joint meetings between department and school staff, and a simple complaint mechanism at the village level.