BY: SALSABIELA JAMAL

There has to be a task force established by the government, preferably by the education ministry, to delve into the reasons why there is an alarming rate of school dropouts and what needs to be done to address the issue.

In the recently concluded SPM examinations, whereby the results were released few weeks ago, it is noteworthy that a high percentage of Form Five students did not sit for the SPM and chose to drop out of school.

Investigations and studies have to be conducted as, if the situation were allowed to continue, it can only get worse for the nation as it will seriously and in a negative way affect the quality of human capital and the workforce of the future.

Many educationists have voiced their concerns especially during the Covid 19 pandemic and after when school leavers preferred not to pursue higher studies but to join the employment market or get married and settle down.

Educationsts commented that this syndrome does not augur well as the nation is striving hard towards an advanced and developed status in future and youngsters or not wanting to be up to the mark academically.

A comprehensive study has to be done on this issue, spearheaded by the government and education ministry, and input, suggestions, thoughts, feedback and ideas must be sought from all stakeholders who must also be consulted.

-THE MALAYSIA VOICE

** The views expressed on this opinion is of the writer and not the publisher