Taiwan Quick Take: Dropout problem addressed

The Ministry of Education yesterday unveiled a plan aimed at helping school dropouts return to their studies. While the ministry will keep tabs on schools with high dropout rates, education authorities in various counties and cities should prepare charts comparing the number and ratio of dropouts every month and provide guidance to affected schools whenever necessary, according to the plan. Ministry tallies show that a total of 7,448 students dropped out of school during the 2005-2006 academic year. Officials said there are 10 schools with a high number of dropouts -- four in Taipei County, three in Taoyuan County, two in Kaohsiung County and one in Keelung. Common reasons cited for students dropping out of school include family problems, personal problems and Internet addiction, the officials said.