Elements Shaping the South African Education System of the Future

The South African education system is deeply unjust because a child’s place of birth, skin colour and family’s income largely determines their educational attainment. Understanding future trends and developments can assist stakeholders in planning and decision making. Better decisions could ultimately improve the education system. Therefore, this research aims to answer three questions: What trends could impact the South African education system? What opportunities and threats arise due to these trends? Who could influence the system? 

To address these questions, a mixed-method approach was adopted. First, conceptual systems diagrams were developed to depict the current education system and its stakeholders. Then, semi-structured expert interviews were used to identify future trends, threats and opportunities. 

This study found that the trends impacting South Africa broadly align with global trends. Examples include an increase in privatisation, technology in schools and climate change. More violence in schools is the main outlier. The study found that the risks related to technology and climate change are not being planned or accounted for. Similarly, violence is currently not a priority. The study also found that participants agreed on who the major stakeholders are, but disagreed on what actions stakeholders should take.