Over half of high school students leave before finishing their studies, according to University of Guadalajara Rector Tonatiuh Bravo Padilla.
Bravo said that a variety of factors influenced the decision to drop out. Among them were a lack of economic resources which make it difficult to cover school costs. Another significant minority were young women who become pregnant.
“The lack of orientation is a problem,” Bravo said. “Students become dissatisfied with study and seek a professional or technical path. Another factor is that they may live far away from their schools. Others left in search of opportunities in the United States.”
The government is seeking to lower the high school dropout rate. At the beginning of the year, Artistoteles Sandoval announced that by 2018, all young people that apply to enter an educational institution will have a place guaranteed.