What Does It Take to Ensure a Sustainable Future for SPM Dropouts? A Preliminary Study on the Development of a Survivorship Model
List of Authors
Aslan Amat Senin, Azreen Jihan Che Mohd Hashim, Mohamad Faizal Ramli, Mohd Daniel Afiq Khamar Tazilah, Muhammad Majid, Nor Azairiah Fatimah Othman
Keyword
Developing, Survivorship Model, SPM Dropout, Sustainable Quality Life
Abstract
Malaysia, like many countries, faces a critical challenge concerning secondary school dropout rates. As reported by Free Malaysia Today, 211,544 candidates who were registered for the SPM examination between 2019 and 2021 either did not attempt the examination or did not achieve a passing grade (140,474 candidates failed the exam, and 71,070 did not sit for it). Over the past few years, there has been a noticeable increase in SPM dropout rates in Malaysia. This trend is alarming because it not only jeopardizes the educational aspirations of individual students but also poses a threat to the nation's efforts in building a skilled and educated workforce. Many studies have focused on dropout prevention (Sani et al., 2020) and the factors contributing to school dropout (Hassan et al., 2023; Rahim et al., 2023), but few have proposed ways to assist dropouts in pursuing better life outcomes. This study will adopt a qualitative research methodology using in-depth interviews with policymakers from selected ministries, executive directors of youth foundations, and school dropouts. A thematic analysis will be employed to identify patterns and themes within the transcribed data. In line with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 1, 4, and 8, the 12th Malaysia Plan (2021–2025), and the new M.A.D.A.N.I. pillars—especially those focusing on well-being and courtesy—this research addresses the lack of effective frameworks. Existing theories, such as macrosystem, social-cognitive, and generational perspectives, are still insufficient to fully explain the complexity of the dropout phenomenon. Hence, there is a critical need for targeted interventions. This study aims to develop a comprehensive survivorship model to support school dropouts, offering them renewed hope and a pathway toward a better future. The model seeks to help dropouts overcome challenges such as limited career options and lower income levels, which significantly impact their quality of life and long-term sustainability.