THE SOURCES OF EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY FOR DROPOUT STUDENTS IN INDIA: PATHWAYS TO MAINSTREAMING AND INCLUSION

Author: Dr. Mohd. Talib Ather Ansari

ABSTRACT

Education is not only a system of teaching; it is fundamental to human growth and the social transformation of inherent human capabilities and existence.  In India, a considerable proportion of children and adolescents are deprived of this essential right owing to their withdrawal from formal education.  The phenomenon of dropout is fundamentally entrenched in social, cultural, and institutional disparities that deprive millions of the chance to realize their potential.  This article investigates the causes and effects of school dropout in India, analyzes current and new educational opportunities for dropout children, and proposes humanistic and policy-driven solutions to aid their reintegration into mainstream education.  The discourse corresponds with the ethos of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aspires to provide inclusive and equitable education for all individuals.  This research emphasizes both official and informal pathways—such as open schooling, skill development programs, digital education, and community-based initiatives—that might enable dropouts to restore their educational pursuits and reintegrate into the socio-educational mainstream.

Keywords: School Dropouts, Open Schooling, AICU, NEP-2020, Inclusion, Mainstreaming

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