#3
Make us count

Youth Capital advocates for individual tracking of learners, so that the right support can be triggered at the right time.

Tracking learners and students as they navigate their education journey between provinces or across different levels of education is a game-changer.

Education Make us count Education Make us count Education Make us count

the fact is

1 in 2

Grade 1s who reach and pass Grade 12 

1.18 mil

Learners who repeat their grades every year

R20 bil

The cost of repeaters in the public schooling system in 2018

In 2014, I was doing my first year at Stellenbosch University. Going from a rural high school into an Afrikaansdominated university was a big issue for me. Every time I had to study for exams it felt like it was my first time hearing about the particular topic because of the language barrier. Only one lecturer realised I was struggling and reached out; we had one-on-one sessions and when I dropped out, in the second semester, I had the highest marks in that subject. Four years later I am graduating in same degree but at a different university.

– Mihle Unathi Bika

RESEARCH

 

The Zero Dropout Campaign works to change the perception that school dropout is a voluntary conclusion by demonstrating what it takes to ensure learners complete Grade 12. Key to this is a data-driven approach, which would help identify learners at risk of dropping out and provide support before they disengage with the schooling system. In this policy brief, the campaign outlines how to leverage the existing data collection system (SA-SAMS) and the Data Driven Districts (DDD) programme through a multistakeholder approach.

What could improved tracking look like?

Existing education data systems are better used to continuously track and report on marks, conduct and attendance

Technical Vocational Education and Training colleges improve and standardise their data systems to make sure students are tracked across their vocational qualifications

Long-term funding for literacy-related interventions and catch-up programmes

more from the action plan

ACTION PLAN | EDUCATION

#1 Certify us

ACTION PLAN | EDUCATION

#2 Catch us up

ACTION PLAN | EDUCATION

#4 support us beyond the classroom