This year, 9,930 students did not appear for the matriculation examination in Odisha, according to data presented in the Assembly by School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond.
The minister informed that 5,46,876 students had filled up forms for the matric exam. Out of them, 5,36,946 students actually appeared, while 1.81 per cent remained absent.
BJP legislator Upasana Mohapatra raised a question about the number of students who appeared, the dropout percentage, and the government’s measures to prevent dropouts. She also asked why the dropout rate increased and who was responsible.
Minister Gond clarified that despite government initiatives, absenteeism continues to be a challenge. He reiterated that the dropout rate stood at 1.81 per cent this year. The government has introduced awareness programs and support schemes to reduce dropouts, but the issue persists due to multiple socio-economic factors.
