THE IMPACT OF OVERPOPULATION ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF STUDENTS IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN MMC

ABSTRACT The findings of this study highlight the significant negative impact that overpopulation has on schools. Overcrowded classrooms strain the educational system, making it difficult for teachers to provide quality education and individualized attention, which in turn hinders student learning and performance. The lack of sufficient infrastructure and teaching resources exacerbates these challenges, contributing to lower academic achievement and poor classroom management. Moreover, overpopulation is not just an academic issue; it also has far-reaching implications for students’ mental health. The competitive and stressful environment created by overcrowded schools can lead to increased anxiety, depression, and behavioral problems, further affecting students' overall well-being. There is a clear consensus among the respondents that hiring more teachers, expanding infrastructure, and integrating technology are crucial steps to address the issue of overcrowding. Additionally, there is an urgent call for government intervention to prioritize overpopulation as a policy issue and ensure that sufficient resources are allocated to tackle this problem.