35,000 dropouts in Central Java

35,000 dropouts in Central Java

SEMARANG: About 35,000 students from elementary to high school
levels dropped out of school in Central Java last year, the
provincial ministry of national education spokesman said on
Monday.

Harjanto said 16,876 were elementary students, 11,794 in
junior high school and the rest in high school.

He identified economic difficulties as the main reason for
them leaving school.

"Many of them are busy helping their parents put food on the
table," Harjanto said. He added that many entered the informal
sector as laborers, vendors and household help.

"Many girls also got married at a young age," Harjanto said.
(har/edt)