In line with the 1990 Jomtien goals of universalizing primary education, Pakistan is pursuing to achieve retention and completion of primary education cycle up to 90% students by the year 2010. However, despite continual education reforms by the Government in line with Education for All, reducing dropouts (more than 50%) amongst primary school-goers and achieving the set targets (total elimination of dropouts by 2015) at primary school level still remain major challenges.

To closely examine the factors that induce school dropout, the Education Development & Research Cell carried out a case study research to explore the causes of high absenteeism and dropout at one of Sindh Education Foundation’s Community Supported Schools in Sehwan, Sindh. Rapid Rural Appraisal (RRA) technique was used for information gathering from children dropped out or studying in the CSS, their parents, school teachers and various community members. Findings unfolded that poverty, involvement of children in economic activities, restraining societal behavior, rampant health problems as well as in-school factors (lack of competent teacher and restricted curriculum), all contribute to high absenteeism and dropout from school. Research duly argues that if schooling is to be made a reality for all children, then reform in the primary education sector must occur, through establishment of an education system committed to not just access but also to modification to suit indigenous needs, and equally by paying attention to out-of-school factors, which contribute, to the instability of schooling.