Published Paper Details:

Educational discontinuation among Scheduled Caste (SC) students is a critical concern impacting the broader objectives of equitable access to higher education in India. This paper presents an in-depth examination of the causes behind high dropout rates among SC students in Punjab, employing a case study approach to explore real-life experiences. The study investigates 6 individuals from various districts in Punjab, capturing their personal, familial, and educational backgrounds to better understand the barriers they face. Findings reveal that economic hardship is a predominant factor driving these students to discontinue their education. Most families struggle to meet basic expenses, and the additional financial burden of college fees, transportation, and study materials often makes higher education unattainable. Furthermore, institutional inadequacies, such as limited classroom space, insufficient teaching staff, and inadequate learning resources, create an unsupportive academic environment, discouraging students from continuing their studies. Cultural and gender-based expectations also heavily influence dropout rates, particularly for female students, who are often expected to prioritize domestic responsibilities or face safety concerns in commuting to distant colleges. Additionally, caste-based discrimination, both subtle and overt, further marginalizes SC students, impacting their motivation and sense of belonging in academic settings. These findings underscore the need for comprehensive policy interventions, including targeted financial aid, enhanced infrastructure, and anti-discrimination measures, to support SC students in overcoming these barriers. By addressing these socio-economic and institutional challenges, policymakers can foster a more inclusive educational environment that enables SC students to achieve their academic aspirations and improve their socio-economic status. This study contributes valuable insights into the complex interplay of factors influencing educational discontinuation among SC students, highlighting the urgent need for inclusive educational reforms in Punjab and beyond.