Student Dropouts In Kelantan Not At Critical Level - Education DG

KOTA BHARU,  Sept 4 (Bernama) -- The issue of student dropouts in Kelantan remains under control and has not reached a critical level, said Education Director-General Dr Mohd Azam Ahmad.

He said the number of student dropouts in the state has declined, with 652 students recorded last year compared to 327 students so far this year.

 "We see positive improvements with various interventions carried out by the State Education Department in collaboration with school principals and headmasters to reduce student dropouts.

"In Kelantan, the Kota Bharu district recorded the highest number of dropouts with 76 students, followed by Gua Musang with 62. Regardless of the numbers, we always examine the main causes behind these dropouts,” he told reporters after opening the 63rd National Conference of Malaysian School Principals' Educational Management, here today.

Mohd Azam said the factors contributing to student dropouts include family socio-economic challenges, the desire to work and peer influence.

“We want students to attend school not only to improve academically but also to build their character, moral values, and mental well-being.

“We monitor those who may be involved in negative activities and assess the situation from time to time. Poverty has been identified as one of the main factors, and we currently provide 16 types of assistance to support underprivileged students,” he said.

Meanwhile, on claims that teachers are facing pressure at work due to principals, Mohd Azam said the ministry has received complaints regarding the issue.

“The complaints were responded to in writing. I do not consider it a critical problem, but it may have arisen due to communication issues, which can create feelings of insecurity among teachers.

“I have advised school principals to view this matter positively and use it as an opportunity to improve management quality.

“I believe the issue can be resolved by strengthening communication between principals, school administrators, and teachers, which will ultimately foster better understanding within the schools,” he said.

-- BERNAMA