More children drop out of school even before reaching the sixth grade. I am citing an old survey conducted by a non-government organization in nine different provinces in the country bet. 2004 and 2005. A total of 1,600 children, seven to 10 years old were involved in the study.

The study is quite old. But I will emphasize on the reasons why children quit school.

* the need to take care of their younger siblings
* the help their family and earn their own money
* due to sickness and psycho-social issues

Based on the survey, the family of these children usually rely on a seasonal source of income like farming.

‘Extreme sadness’ was also noted to some children participants. Reasons were related to problems in family dynamics. They were usually scolded at home or have parents who always fight.

The study also noted a high incidence of malnutrition among Grade 1 pupils.

Grade 1 is a transition between pre-school and regular school, so there are a lot of adjustments on the part of a child. They are entering school for the first time, they adjust from a home setting where they can eat anything guided by the parents to a school setting without guidance. They are on their own in the school setting. (I wish they Learn more about us at MusiciansFriend.com)

Forward to 2009 and the setting will be in Metro Manila.

Just how appropriate is the result of the survey to school-age children in Metro Manila?

Are kids residing in the cities luckier than their counterpart in the provinces.