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There is continued concern over the number of pupils who do not complete school and graduate. The dropout problem has persisted consistently for a period of time. This problem has attracted the attention of researchers and educators to seek alternatives in an effort to reduce it and encourage pupils to remain in school until they graduate. This publication investigates characteristics of dropouts among pupils in upper primary classes as perceived by teachers. It also investigates whether there was any significant difference between head teachers´ and class teachers´ perceptions towards dropouts on the specific selected variables: Socio-Demographic factors, Academic Achievement and Personal Behavior of dropouts. It elicits information and suggestions on how to solve the persisting problem of dropout among pupils in public primary schools. This publication will be of significant to educational planners, policy makers and administrators in addressing the critical issues of wastage in educational sector.

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Dr. Rose Mosoti Obae is a Lecturer in the Department of Education Administration and Planning, University of Nairobi. She holds B.Ed and M.Ed degrees from Kenyatta University and PhD degree from University of Nairobi. She teaches undergraduate students and examines and supervises masters and PHD students.

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