Quality Inclusive Education: A South African Perspective on a Global Goal

Overview

The South African constitution states that all citizens have a right to basic education. The reality is that inequality is still entrenched in the education system in South Africa, with many students facing barriers that prevent them from accessing mainstream public education. Facing obstacles such as historical exclusion from institutions of learning, the present day financial exclusion of marginalized groups, teenage pregnancy, and the lack of comprehensive governmental support for public education, community initiatives are seeking ways to reimagine what education can look like in the country.

The first session explores the obstacles to education in South Africa while also challenging participants to critically evaluate access to, and the value of, education in their own communities. Session two highlights an example of an African solution to educational inequality through discussions with a local education organization. Interactions will include both South African professionals and students, and invite participants to discover the transcontinental value of education and seek possible global solutions for equitable access.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this cluster, participants should be able to:

1. Outline barriers to education in South Africa
2. Critically discuss the value of education in different contexts
3. Explore an African solution to educational obstacles
4. Discuss the application of this African approach to education transcontinentally

Virtual Inclusions

• Small group discussions with South African students highlighting transcontinental barriers to education
• Peer-to-peer collaboration for solutions

Assessment

Participants to devise a potential solution to barriers to quality education for their local community.

Eligibility Requirements

• Open to students of any discipline or background
• Must have access to reliable, high-speed internet connection and device from which to connect
• Willingness to collaborate synchronously (in real time)
• Good command of English language
• Ability to demonstrate sensitivity to different accents and ways of speaking in English

Time investment:

3 hours of Synchronous Engagement (2 sessions of 1.5h each)

Min/Max Pax

15-45 participants

Program Cost

$1550 for 15-30 participants.

Additional participants at $30 pp.