A STUDY ON CONTINUING EDUCATION FOR SCHOOL DROPOUTS THROUGH OPEN SCHOOLING AT SENIOR SECONDARY LEVEL IN MARGHERITA, TINSUKIA DISTRICT OF ASSAM

Abstract

Education is a basic right, yet school dropout remains a major problem in Assam, especially in rural and economically weaker areas like Tinsukia district. Open schooling offers a second chance for dropouts to continue and complete their education. This study explores the reasons behind school dropout and assesses whether open schooling at the senior secondary level meets the expectations of learners in Margherita block of Tinsukia. A mixed-methods approach was used, involving 200 re-enrolled learners. Statistical analyses, including t-test, one-way ANOVA, and correlation, were conducted to examine the influence of socio-economic and school-related factors on learners’ outcomes. The results show that poverty, family responsibilities, and poor school infrastructure are the main reasons for dropout. Open schooling provides flexibility and access, but learners still face challenges such as limited recognition of certificates, inadequate support, and uncertain long-term career benefits. The findings underline the importance of locally tailored interventions, including counseling, awareness programs, and stronger links with employers, to improve learner outcomes and make open schooling more effective for disadvantaged students.