Determinants of students vulnerability to attrition in higher education: Evidence from Arba Minch University, Ethiopia

Abstract

This study aimed at assessing the level and determinants of students' vulnerability to attrition in Arba Minch University, Southern Ethiopia using a random sample of 547 students. The study revealed that, out of 547 sample students, 207 (38%) students were found highly vulnerable to attrition, 51 (9%) students were moderately vulnerable and the remaining 289 (53%) were not vulnerable. From highly vulnerable categories of students, 132 (64%) were female, while 75 (36%) were male students. With respect to place of origin, out of 207 highly vulnerable students, 119 (57%) of students were from rural areas where as 88 (43%) of students were from urban areas. In addition, 40% of students who were placed to a study program without their interest were highly vulnerable. The study also revealed that first year students are more likely vulnerable to attrition than second and third year students. Logistic regression result revealed that gender, students' satisfaction, study hours, monthly income and faculty of study significantly affect students' vulnerability to attrition. So, to reduce the number of unfinished degrees and reduce vulnerability to attrition, leaders of higher institution should give due attention to students' program placement, tutorials for female students and provision of better student services.