Factors Affecting Female Student Dropout Rates in Hargeisa, Somaliland High Schools

Abstract

Hassan Abdillahi Duale, Mumtas Yousof Aden, Jama Osman Mohamed and Abdihakin Ahmed Ismail

Every society's economic development has been based on education. Female student abandonment, on the other hand, constitute a considerable drain and loss on a country's education budget, especially as high school possibilities are predicted to grow. This study investigated various variables that influence the dropout rate of girls from high school in Hargeisa, Somaliland. The study was directed by the following precise goals such as to examine the effects of domestic labor, to assess the influence of parents’ attitudes and to determine the influence community’s perception on girl child education in Hargeisa. The study was carried out using a descriptive research approach. The demographic being targeted included Principles, female students, educators, and parents. Purposive sampling was used to choose respondents from the designated high schools. The sample size was 68 respondents. Questionnaires were chosen as collecting data instruments. Descriptive methods of statistical analysis such as percent and frequencies were used to analyze quantitative data. The data was presented using tables and charts. According to The study results, domestic labor, parent’s attitudes, and community perceptions are resulting in a higher percentage of female high school dropouts. According to findings, 50% the respondents identified working as house helps as a reason for girls dropping out of school. Additionally, 79% of the respondents believed that parents have a responsibility in their daughter's education and dropout, while 63% of the respondents stated that their communities do not prioritize or encourage girls' education. The study suggested that it is essential for girls to have access to basic education as it is their fundamental right as stated in the Somaliland constitution. Additionally, the study recommended conducting further research in secondary schools to identify other challenges that girls face and find effective strategies to help them stay in school and continue their education.

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