EDS3701
ASSIGNMENT 4
SEMESTER 1
ANSWERS 2025
EDS3701 ASSIGNMENT 4 SEMESTER 1
ANSWERS 2025
, EDS3701 ASSIGNMENT 4
b) Table of Contents**
1. Introduction
2. Challenges Faced by South African Schools (3.1)
3. Contribution to High Dropout Rates (3.2)
4. Proposed Solutions as Minister of Education (3.3)
5. Conclusion
6. List of References
**c) Introduction**
South Africa faces a significant challenge with alarmingly high university dropout rates,
particularly among first-year students. Statistics indicate that between 50% and 60% of first-
year students fail to complete their studies. While the 30% pass mark in secondary schools is a
commonly cited concern, this assignment will delve into additional challenges confronting
South African schools, explore how these challenges contribute to the dropout rate, and
propose solutions from the perspective of a new Minister of Education.
*3.1 Challenges Faced by South African Schools**
Beyond the 30% pass rate, South African schools face numerous systemic challenges:
1. **Inequality in Resource Allocation:** Historically disadvantaged schools, particularly in
rural areas and townships, suffer from inadequate funding, infrastructure, and resources
compared to schools in wealthier areas. This disparity results in unequal access to quality
education.
2. **Lack of Qualified Teachers:** Many schools, especially in underserved communities,
struggle to attract and retain qualified teachers. This is due to factors like lower salaries, poor
working conditions, and limited opportunities for professional development. The shortage of
subject specialists, particularly in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and
Mathematics), is also a significant concern.
3. **Socioeconomic Factors:** Poverty, food insecurity, lack of access to healthcare, and
unstable home environments significantly impact students' ability to focus on their studies.
ASSIGNMENT 4
SEMESTER 1
ANSWERS 2025
EDS3701 ASSIGNMENT 4 SEMESTER 1
ANSWERS 2025
, EDS3701 ASSIGNMENT 4
b) Table of Contents**
1. Introduction
2. Challenges Faced by South African Schools (3.1)
3. Contribution to High Dropout Rates (3.2)
4. Proposed Solutions as Minister of Education (3.3)
5. Conclusion
6. List of References
**c) Introduction**
South Africa faces a significant challenge with alarmingly high university dropout rates,
particularly among first-year students. Statistics indicate that between 50% and 60% of first-
year students fail to complete their studies. While the 30% pass mark in secondary schools is a
commonly cited concern, this assignment will delve into additional challenges confronting
South African schools, explore how these challenges contribute to the dropout rate, and
propose solutions from the perspective of a new Minister of Education.
*3.1 Challenges Faced by South African Schools**
Beyond the 30% pass rate, South African schools face numerous systemic challenges:
1. **Inequality in Resource Allocation:** Historically disadvantaged schools, particularly in
rural areas and townships, suffer from inadequate funding, infrastructure, and resources
compared to schools in wealthier areas. This disparity results in unequal access to quality
education.
2. **Lack of Qualified Teachers:** Many schools, especially in underserved communities,
struggle to attract and retain qualified teachers. This is due to factors like lower salaries, poor
working conditions, and limited opportunities for professional development. The shortage of
subject specialists, particularly in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and
Mathematics), is also a significant concern.
3. **Socioeconomic Factors:** Poverty, food insecurity, lack of access to healthcare, and
unstable home environments significantly impact students' ability to focus on their studies.
