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Discussion Paper: Analysing Trends and Determinants of Student Attrition Rates at IBSUniversity, Papua New Guinea (2017 - 2024)
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Discussion Paper: Analysing Trends and Determinants of Student Attrition Rates at IBSUniversity, Papua New Guinea (2017 - 2024)

Promise Zvavahera, Amala Deepan Arulanandham, Victor Bogalin, Abinaya Nagamuthu, Emmanuel M. Aquino, Srinivasan Rengalwar, Melissa Hatabia and Jobin Scaria
Analysing Trends and Determinants of Student Attrition Rates at IBSUniversity, Papua New Guinea (2017 - 2024), (221), pp.1-31
National Research Institute
01/2026
Appears in  Recent Faculty of Science and Engineering Publications
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Abstract

Student attrition IBSUniversity Papua New Guinea retention strategies
This study analyses the trends and underlying determinants of student attrition at IBSUniversity in Papua New Guinea from 2017 to 2024. Student attrition continues to be a significant challenge in higher education institutions, often stemming from broader systemic, institutional, and socioeconomic issues. Employing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through face-to-face interviews with 24 continuing students and 12 students who had discontinued their studies, as well as an online questionnaire completed by 152 current students. Additional insights through face-to-face interviews were gathered from Heads of Schools. The study identified key contributing factors such as socio-economic hardships, cultural pressures, and students' difficulties in adapting to the academic demands of university life. Emerging challenges specific to IBSUniversity included a lack of student accommodation, limited access to computers and internet services, poor transport options, a lack of structured meal plans and financial constraints. These findings highlight critical areas requiring intervention and may reflect similar issues at other universities in Papua New Guinea. The study provides evidence-based recommendations and calls for collaborative efforts between universities, the government, and the private sector to improve infrastructure, student services, and overall support systems in higher education institutions in PNG and beyond.

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