INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR INNOVATIVE RESEARCH IN MULTIDISCIPLINARY FIELD

Abstract:  Dropout from higher education is a complex and multidimensional challenge with significant social and economic implications. Despite Kerala being renowned for its highest literacy rate in India, attrition from colleges remains prevalent. This qualitative study explored the causes of dropout from Arts and Science colleges in Kozhikode district. Data were collected from 60 dropout students, 15 teachers, and 10 parents using open-ended questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Analytic induction through constant comparison revealed five broad categories of causes: financial hardship, academic difficulties, socio-cultural expectations, health issues, and personal reasons. Gender differences emerged, with men leaving due to financial constraints, job placements, and disinterest, while women disproportionately left due to early marriage, pregnancy, and family restrictions. The study emphasizes structural limitations in Kerala’s education system—such as lack of student orientation, rigid curricula, and weak counselling networks—that perpetuate dropout. Recommendations include comprehensive financial aid policies, pre-admission academic orientation, accessible counselling and mentorship systems, and gender-sensitive measures including on-campus childcare. The study highlights the paradox of Kerala’s celebrated literacy with persistent attrition, arguing that sustainable educational development lies not only in enrolment expansion but also in ensuring persistence and completion.