Govt schools told to counsel repeat Class IX failures to prevent dropouts

New Delhi: To step up efforts to prevent school dropouts, Delhi govt has directed its schools to identify and counsel students who have failed Class IX more than once and may be at risk of leaving the education system.

Following the declaration of the Class IX compartment examination results, Directorate of Education (DoE) issued a circular to heads of all govt schools, asking them to reach out to such students and their families. School heads have been instructed to personally invite students and parents for discussions at a mutually convenient time and ensure that the meetings are conducted in a supportive, non-judgmental environment.

The department has stressed that counselling should be the primary focus of these interactions. Schools have been asked to explain the value of completing school education and the long-term opportunities it can create for students.

According to DoE, a lack of guidance and motivation often pushes students to discontinue their studies. Schools have therefore been directed to encourage students to remain in formal education wherever possible.

If students or their parents are unwilling to continue through the regular school system, school authorities have been asked to inform them about alternative pathways, particularly the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS). Through NIOS, students can take direct admission in Class X, choose subjects based on their strengths, including less demanding options if required, and study at a pace that helps reduce academic pressure while avoiding the loss of an academic year.

The DoE has also clarified that students who pass Class X through NIOS will remain eligible for admission to Class XI in their parent govt schools. The department said such interventions could help ensure that students continue their education rather than dropping out altogether.