Concerns are mounting over the state of South Africa’s education system, with experts warning that persistent shortcomings could have long-term consequences for the country’s social and economic development.
A recent VOC News poll revealed that all respondents 100% felt the education system is not adequately structured to support learners.
Senior Lecturer in Curriculum Studies at Stellenbosch University, Dr. Omar Esau, highlighted deep inequalities in access to resources.
“Only about 37% of households can reliably say they’ve got internet access. These shortages also extend to schools. In one school, you’ll find all the gadgets students can use to enhance lessons. In another, there’s only a blackboard, can you believe it?” he said.
Listen to the full interview with Dr Esau below:
Former Trafalgar High School principal, Nadeem Hendricks, argued that the system is lagging behind global technological shifts and called for a national dialogue on education.
“There are serious systemic problems that prevent most learners from being prepared for the technological challenges of the new world order. The system is not addressing the problems, and those in charge are not equipped to drive meaningful improvements,” Hendricks stressed.
Listen to the full interview with Hendricks below:
Both experts agree that urgent reforms are needed if South Africa is to ensure its learners are adequately prepared for the future.
VOC News
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