Mngulwi, Peter2019-10-082020-01-082019-10-082020-01-082013Mngulwi, P (2013) The influence of parental occupation on children’s dropout rate in community secondary schools in Same district in Tanzania, Master dissertation, University of Dar es Salaam. (Available at http://41.86.178.3/internetserver3.1.2/detail.aspx)http://localhost:8080/xmlui/handle/123456789/4304Available in print formThe study sought to investigate the influence of parental occupation on children’s dropout rate in community secondary schools. The study was carried out in Same District in Kilimanjaro region involving seven community secondary schools. The objectives of the study were; to determine the rate of students dropping out in relation to their parents’ occupations, to examine occupations which are more closely associated with dropping out behaviour and to investigate how parents’ occupations influence dropping outs. Qualitative research approach was employed using a case study design. Relevant data were collected through documents review and interview guides. Tables and figures were used to present results of the study. The respondents involved were 40 dropouts, 7 headmasters, 14 parents and 1 District Education Officer. Categories of respondents were obtained through purposive and convenience techniques. The sample was chosen from seven school selected on the basis of parents’ occupations. The study findings revealed that parents’ occupations have a big influence on students’ dropping out behaviour. The dropout rates differed from one occupation to another. It was found that fishing, pastoralism and farming were the leading occupations with high rates of dropouts. The major contributing factors were low income, negative attitude toward education, and movement of parents’ from one place to another. On the basis of findings, it was recommended that laws should be enforced to punish parents who encourage children’s dropping out of school. With regard, both parents and students should be informed on the importance of education. The government and community members together should collaborate to build hostels and boarding schools. Lastly, the study invites other researchers to work on wider geographical area which will involve more samples relating to secondary school dropouts.enHigh school dropoutCommunity schoolsSecondary schoolsSame districtTanzaniaThesis