Week 10: Article related to my service learning project

 

Article: "Class dismissed? Youth resistance and the politics of race and class in South African education"

By: Chetty, Rajendra

Hard Facts:

• Only 11 per cent of black youth and seven per cent of coloured youth in the 18-24-year age bracket are in university, compared to almost 60 per cent of white youth (Higher education in context 2011)

Why is this so?

• Low quality primary and secondary schooling
• The history of black education in South Africa remains one of substantive inequity, maintained through township and rural public schools. Although the South African Schools Act, 1996, removed discriminatory practices with regard to access to schools based on race, the situation in black township schools is by no means one of equity
• Poor quality of mathematics achievement scores of those black students who gain university admission militates against them securing places in the prestigious science medical and engineering programs.  Leaving few options left for the large majority.
• States allowances and scholarships are awarded on the basis of merit and not on factors such as financial need or poverty.  
• Limited black students who are able to secure scholarships, are the privileged ones with good matriculation results form advantages schools where parents are able to afford high fees.

After graduation:

• Even for those who are able to secure a place at university and complete a degree program, the chance of finding employment are limited given the high rate of unemployment among graduates. 

Where can a intellectually ambitious poor student turn?

• Perhaps inspiration and support come from the occasional teacher, perhaps from a chance encounter with ideas.
• What is certain is that in our profoundly anti-intellectual culture, it will not come from schools or the media.

How does this fit into my research with Dell Young Leaders, Michael & Susan Dell Foundation:

 Who are Dell Young Leaders?

• Dell Young Leaders are first-generation South African university students from disadvantaged communities. 

What does the Dell Young Leaders Program offer?

• Each academic year 100 Dell Young Leaders are selected across the University of Cape Town and University of Pretoria. Each Dell Young Leader receives financial support and wrap-around services that help to level the playing field for these first-generation university students.
• Academic training, individualized support to help navigate their way through unique scenarios, on-campus support staff, or Dell Young Leader peer mentors.

Tell Me More!

• Students in the program participate in academic skills development workshops and extended learning classes designed to improve the on-the-job soft skills.

Results

• 100% of Dell Young Leaders are placed in professional jobs once they graduate!
• Graduate are able to help provide for families
• Contribution to South Africa's overall economic development