Factors contributing to low enrollment in agricultural science in grade 10: A descriptive quantitative case study of a secondary school in Guyana

Agriculture remains central to national development, food security, and economic diversification in Guyana; however, enrollment in Agricultural Science at the secondary level remains comparatively low. National data from the Caribbean Examinations Council (CSEC) between 2015 and 2024 indicate that Agricultural Science candidates consistently represented less than one-quarter of total enrollment, despite the sector’s strategic importance. This study investigated the determinants of low enrollment in Agricultural Science among senior students at Secondary School A in Guyana. Guided by the systems approach to education, a case study research design was employed. A simple random sample of 90 students from a population of 156 Grade 10 and 11 students participated in a self-administered questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic coding. Results revealed that only 20% of students selected Agricultural Science, compared with 47.8% in Principles of Business and 32.2% in Home Economics. Although 92.2% of students acknowledged agriculture as essential for survival, negative perceptions persisted: 80.3% believed society undervalues agricultural careers, 80% viewed the subject as suited for low achievers, and 76.6% associated agriculture primarily with farm labor. Career ambitions and parental influence emerged as the strongest determinants of subject choice. Structural deficiencies, particularly inadequate tools, limited practical facilities, and minimal experiential learning opportunities, were identified as major barriers to enrollment. The findings underscore the interplay of attitudinal and institutional factors shaping subject selection and highlight the need for resource enhancement, mentorship initiatives, and targeted awareness programs to strengthen the agricultural education pipeline in Guyana.