AN INVISIBLE PROBLEM - A REAL RISK: STUDENT DROP-OUT FROM SECONDARY EDUCATION

Young people who are at risk of high school dropping out are specific vulnerable group because they are at risk of social exclusion and entry into the poverty trap. High school dropping out in the European context has been identified as a significant social problem but in the Croatian context, it is so far not fully recognized and explored. Research shows that this is a complex issue that should examine on an individual, family, school, peer and wider social level. The consequences of school-drop out are multi-layered. They are reflecting on difficult and uncertain employment, and also have adverse effects on person's psychological well-being and civic involvement, and therefore often lead to social exclusion of individuals. The problem of school-drop out requires holistic and multidisciplinary approach, especially at the level of the problem identification, early recognition of the drop-out risks and timely intervention. Therefore developing prevention programs to work with families and students as well as the reintegration of students who dropped out of the education system is essential. Investing in the education of youth and providing various social policy measures in purpose to prevent and reduce students dropping-out represents an investment in more prosper future of our young generation and society in general.