Spatial Variation in Educational Demographic Waste Among Young People in the Al-Jabayish District (for the year 2025)

Abstract

        The study of educational demographic wastage is a fundamental pillar of population geography, given its direct correlation with the efficiency of human capital investment. Demographic wastage is an individual behavioral output influenced by the social environment and economic capabilities, which are core population characteristics. This research aims to analyze the spatial variation of educational wastage—manifested in school failure (repetition) and dropout rates—among young age groups in Al-Chibayish District and its administrative units for the year 2025.

      The research problem lies in monitoring the educational gaps resulting from the interplay of demographic, social, and economic factors, which negatively impact the qualitative development of future generations. The study adopts a descriptive-analytical approach to diagnose the phenomenon and analyze its causes, relying on official data from the Central Statistical Organization and the Directorate of Education in Dhi Qar. 

Statistical and cartographic methods were employed to tabulate the data and convert it into digital indicators, enabling a spatial comparison at the district and sub-district levels. The study focused on the (6–14) year age group, where the number of enrollees reached 15,829. The number of dropouts was recorded at 322, with a wastage rate of 20.3 per thousand at the district level. Meanwhile, the number of failing students in the primary and intermediate stages reached 3,495, with a wastage rate of 220.8 per thousand of the district's total. In addition to uncovering the nature of variation in wastage levels, the research provides a geographical vision aimed at supporting government institutions in formulating strategies to mitigate demographic loss and develop the potential of the youth in the region.