Preventing Dropout: Reaching at-risk students to ensure they stay in school

In Cambodia, in-cycle dropout is most acute in Grades 7, 8 and 9, with an average dropout rate of about 20 percent. USAID stepped in with the School Dropout Prevention Pilot (SDPP) Program, which works with government ministries, schools, students and parents to craft the appropriate solutions to mitigate drop out and rigorously measure the interventions' impact, using randomized control trials. USAID is testing interventions to reduce dropout in Cambodia, India, Tajikistan and Timor-Leste. In Cambodia, interventions include an Early Warning System and computer literacy classes.