An investigation of causes and patterns of school dropouts in Tanzania: a case of Bagamoyo district in coast region

The purpose of this study was to examine how primary schools combat dropouts’ challenges in Bagamoyo district. The objectives of the study were to: examine trend and patterns of primary school pupils’ dropping behavior; examine the challenges causing persistence dropout problem in primary school; explore strategies school employed to curb school dropout challenges and identify pupils and parents’ views on how to remedy school dropout. To realize the objectives of the study, the qualitative approach was employed using a case study. Data from six primary schools were collected through interviews, focused group discussion and documentary reviews techniques. The study involved 12 teachers, 3 dropouts, head teachers, 0 continuing pupils, 2 Ward education coordinators, 2 village leaders, 24parents and 1 District education Officer. A random sampling technique was used in selecting schools, teachers and continuing pupils. A purposive technique was used to select the District education officer (DEO, village leaders, Ward education coordinators (WECs) and head teachers. Snowball technique was employed in getting parents and dropouts. The study revealed that there were as many challenges as were intervening strategies used by school management to deal with the problem. Clearly, involvement of the parents, school feeding programme, taking legal measures, assistance on the school needs and community involvement were used by primary schools in Bagamoyo district to deal with school dropouts’ problem. The study concluded that eliminating school fees was not the only way for reducing school dropouts among primary school pupils since other school financial contributions for buildings and security as well as direct costs for uniforms, stationery and text books caused pupils’ dropout. The study recommended that, the government through ministry of education and vocational training should make sure that all school financial contributions for building cost and uniform cost must be eliminated by the government. Establish a pro-attendance culture in which pupils are rewarded for good attendance instead of punishment. Further research in public primary schools should be done to investigate how modern approaches to discipline can be effective in addressing the problem of dropouts as compared to the dominating practice of traditional methods.