Does Geography Matters for Dropout? A Study on Secondary Education in Haor Regions of Bangladesh

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Authors: Mohammad Akteruzzaman Mohammad Najimul Hoque

Keywords: Secondary Education, Dropout Rates, Haor Regions, Geographical Barriers.

Journal: Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bangladesh (Hum.) - 71(1) - June 2026

Page Numbers: 165-180

Published At: June 2026

DOI: 10.64298/jasbhum.v71i.007

Abstract:

Over the past few decades, Bangladesh has made impressive progress in secondary education with improvements in enrolment, infrastructure, and gender parity. However, a number of socioeconomic and geographic factors continue to contribute to the alarming secondary dropout rate in the Haor areas of Bangladesh. This study investigates the geographical factors associated with secondary-level school dropout in geographically disadvantaged Haor regions. A mixed method approach (predominantly qualitative) has been executed to collect primary data through the questionnaire surveys, FGDs, case studies, and KIIs. The survey purposively selected 80 dropout students from three secondary schools in Austagram Upazila, Kishoreganj district. The study reveals that geographical factors such as spatial inequality in school distribution, seasonal accessibility barriers, natural disasters, teacher shortages, poor infrastructures and local production cycles contribute to long-term absenteeism and dropout rates in Haor regions of Bangladesh. To reduce dropout rates and ensure quality education, the study recommends building flood-resistant schools, enhancing transportation facilities, implementing flexible academic calendars, and providing teacher incentives in collaboration with NGOs and community-based organizations.