South Africa: The education struggle continues

Abstract

There has been a plethora of education legislation and policies gazetted in South Africa since the end of apartheid and white minority rule in 1994. This chapter focuses on three main policy thrusts. These are structural and systemic changes, financial and pro-poor measures, and curriculum reform. This chapter argues that there remain gaps in the delivery of the policy framework, including the professionalisation of school management, use of national tests diagnostically, empowerment of education districts, and linking education and skills training. Finally, the author suggests some areas where change could improve performance of the system, including opening the debate on the future and purpose of education in South Africa and closing the gap between policy and practice.