An investigation of factors contributing to dropping out of school in KwaZulu-Natal : policy implications for poverty alleviation.
Date
2003
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Abstract
Contrary to many efforts by the new South African government in its commitment to widen
access to educational opportunities and the provision of a free education for all, dropping out
of school episodes remain a major threat to the gains of the past nines years in the new South
Africa.
Using the second wave of 'Transitions to Adulthood in the Context of Aids in South Africa'
dataset, this dissertation investigates dropping out of school episodes. A dropout refers to an
adolescent who discontinued his/her education before completing grade 12. In particular the
study investigates the major determinants of dropouts. Reasons cited for dropping out of
school varies from economic, individual, social and school based. It was found that the major
contributor to the dropping out of school episodes in KwaZulu-Natal is poverty. Hence the
impact of poverty is widely acknowledged as being among the most serious problems facing
post-apartheid South Africa.
It is against this backdrop that this dissertation seeks an immediate response by government to
invest in human capital, particularly in education, as means to alleviate poverty. The
government among others therefore should recommit itself in providing and funding
education for all. Both access and opportunities to schooling need to be widened.
Description
Thesis (M.A.)-University of Natal, 2003.
Keywords
High school dropouts.--South Africa., Theses--Development studies., Dropouts., School attendance., Education--Social aspects.--South Africa.