South Africa Faces Ongoing Challenge of Keeping Learners in School

 Although South Africa has made significant progress in getting children into classrooms, keeping learners in school through to matric remains a major challenge.

Education is widely recognised as a pathway to opportunity, but for thousands of young people across the country, that journey ends before they complete their secondary education. Poverty, inequality, family responsibilities and limited support continue to contribute to learners leaving school before obtaining their National Senior Certificate.

According to available education statistics, South Africa's primary education system has one of the lowest out-of-school rates, with only 2% of primary school-aged children not attending school.

However, learner retention declines significantly during the high school years.

Figures show that of the 94,234 learners enrolled in Grade 10, only around 70% remain in the education system through to Grade 12. In addition, approximately 10% of young people between the ages of 16 and 18 are completely out of school.

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The figures highlight that while access to education has improved, ensuring learners remain in school until they complete their education remains a pressing concern.

Research indicates that many learners leave school because of circumstances beyond their control.

Girls account for an estimated 56% of school dropouts, with teenage pregnancy, caregiving responsibilities and domestic duties identified as some of the leading contributing factors.

For boys, who make up 44% of school dropouts, financial pressures, the need to earn an income, behavioural challenges and disengagement from school are among the most common reasons for leaving the education system.

Economic inequality also continues to play a significant role. Learners from low-income households often face barriers such as the cost of transport, school uniforms, stationery and other basic educational needs, making it increasingly difficult to remain in school.

While South Africa has made progress in expanding access to education, the country's school dropout rate remains a reminder that many learners continue to face barriers that extend beyond the classroom.

Reducing those barriers is expected to play an important role in improving educational outcomes and creating greater opportunities for young people across the country.