Learner involvement in policy-making decisions in South African schools

Abstract

Children's right to participate extends to school governance and policy-decision making in schools. However, there is a paucity of research regarding whether South Africa's legislative framework is ensuring genuine learner participation in school governance as per the international children's right standard. Therefore this mini-dissertation, first, aims to explore the theoretical framework on child participation in policy-making decisions as part of school governance. Second, the study measures whether South Africa’s laws are satisfying the international children’s rights standard. Third, an investigation as to whether government and school policies are allowing for genuine child participation and non-discrimination is undertaken. Finally, recommendations to fill potential gaps in the national legal framework are provided.