Bantu Education in South Africa Essay

Introduction, views of structural functionalists on education, neo-marxist perspective on education, nature of bantu education, criticism of bantu education, works cited.

Education is an important aspect of development in any society. It contributes towards societal development by preparing learners with the relevant skills, values and attitudes they require to take occupational roles in their future lives. This implies that educational systems play a vital role in determining the well-being of a country.

For many years, South Africa was exposed to discriminatory actions resulting from the apartheid system. This was extended to the education sector through the introduction of the Bantu Education. This Essay focuses on the nature of the Bantu education system and its shortcomings in the eyes of structural functionalists and neo-Marxist sociologists.

There are different structural-functionalist approaches used in the study of sociology of education. However, the most important ones are derived from the works of famous sociologists Durkheim and Parsons. Until the late 1960s and early 1970s, sociological thinking on matters of education was dominated by structural functionalism. Functionalist sociologists of education look at how education contributes towards the well-being of the society.

The provision of social solidarity and value consensus is the strongest of the functional contributions that education makes to the society. Education as socialization is associated with transmission of culture, values and norms that enable people to stick together and facilitate social life in highly traditional social communities. Similarly, the modern education system is supposed to hold modern societies together.

This thinking is founded on the need to deal with the characteristics associated with the transition from simple traditional to complex and modern societies. Complex modern societies involve a change from a homogeneous life based on rural kinship into concentrated but heterogeneous populations in societies which live in urban areas and characterised by differentiated division of labor.

Mass education is a tool that can be used in such societies to instill proper rules and curricula in children that bind them and the new form of society together. This makes it possible for non-kinship -based, consensual and cooperative lives to be established. This was the argument of sociologist Durkheim (Martin 6).

After the establishment of industrial capitalist society, Parson advanced an argument that the function of education was to create a bridge between the primary socialization that took place at home and adult life preparation. He focused on the role of the school in equipping children with universalistic values as opposed to the particularistic ones obtained from the family.

Particularistic roles are the ascribed ones such as the role and status of an individual, such as his/her place in the family. Universalistic roles on the other hand emphasize the teachings that on the basis of birth, nobody is better than the other. According to structural functionalists, education is the basis of modern society where it socializes children and equips them with the necessary skills for adult life and to function in a modern society marked by universalistic values.

They also believe that education plays an important role in modernizing the society as opposed to mere transition from simple to modern. In addition, the role of education in helping the society adapt to changes in the broader environment such as the competitive advantage cannot be underestimated.

There are numerous neo-Marxist approaches to education but the most influential ones are those of Bowles and Gintis who argue that the education system leads to the production of a capitalist society. According to them, the purpose of education in a capitalist society is to reproduce capitalist relations of production meaning profit, capitalist power and capitalist control of power. They believe in a correspondence principle which explains how the school corresponds with work that serves this purpose.

Its function is to reproduce labor in the sense that it provides enough quantities of the different labor types capitalists need. In addition, it reproduces the right type of the labor required by capitalists since it dampens the desire towards class struggle and instead isolates pupils into the highly class-stratified roles they will occupy in the job market once they leave school. Ideally, the purpose of the school is to isolate and integrate pupils into the capitalist society (Blackledge and Hunt 136).

Neo-Marxists argue that for both capitalist and working class children, schools take over from families and socialize the child into the primary societal values, norms, roles and attitudes. The correspondence they talk of between the school and workplace is meant to prepare pupils to assume occupational roles. Schools are organised in a hierarchy and run along authoritarian lines. Learning is also extrinsically motivated rather than being intrinsically motivated.

These characteristics of schools the neo-Marxists argue that are replicated in the workplace where the workers follow the orders given by their bosses without questioning. There motivation is only an extrinsic one in the form of the wages they get.

While formal curriculum is mandated with the task of giving pupils the basic literacy and numeracy they require in their future jobs, the correspondence between school and work is a form of hidden curriculum that prepares them to politically and ideologically embrace life in a capitalist society.

They are prepared to be obedient, docile, passive and loyal to authorities and hierarchy. According to the neo-Marxists, the bottom line is that only a revolutionary transformation of the capitalist mode of production as a whole can lead to a transformed education system.

After the national party came into power in 1948, the neglect and limitation that had characterised native education from 1910 paved the way for strict state control for black education. This control marked the disappearance of the mission school system which was faced by many challenges despite the fact that it was an important educational institution.

The national party government was committed to eliminate the tolerant laissez-faire perceptions towards black education. The Bantu Education Act of 1953 made it possible for the enactment of legislation that was aimed at promoting Christian National Education separate development.

Bantu Education in South Africa was intended at providing the ruling elites with a cheap and submissive labor. In addition, it aimed at resolving the urban crisis that had developed in the 1940s and 1950s due to industrialisation and rapid urbanisation. This was caused by the collapsing homeland agriculture and the expansion of secondary industrialisation after the Second World War. Transport, housing and wages were not enough for the increasing number of working class people who lived in towns.

The response to the breakdown of these services and poor conditions was squatter movements and the formation of trade unions. Radical oppositions to political activities became the norm, accompanied by the leadership of the African National Congress. The increasing levels of poverty became a threat to the physical productivity of the white elites. Social stability in the 1940s was either obstructed by the presence of education or lack of it (Hyslop 80).

Educationalists attributed the increase in crime rates and the defiant nature of youths to the lack of enough schools. They were afraid that political mobilisation was going to be on the increase. Bantu education was therefore ideally aimed at exercising social control over youth and especially those who were working. In addition, there was the need to socialize them in relation to the norms that were regarded as appropriate by the ruling elites alongside producing properly trained and trainable labor.

The uniqueness of Bantu Education was in its adherence to non-egalitarian and racist education. Intellectually, it was believed that such a system of education was important in spreading the idea that the mentality of a native made him suited for repetitive tasks. Such ideas were important in producing a mass education system that was characterised by constrained spending. Although Bantu Education was regarded as a racist-based cheap education, ironically, Africans were responsible for the costs.

They suffered additional taxation in order to fund the cost of African education. The contribution of the state was an annual grant that originated from the general revenue. Taxes raised were used in supplementing the grant where a small percentage was used to develop Bantu Education. The government policy of financing Bantu Education and the increase in the number of students affected the quality due to the worsening of the pupil-teacher ratio.

During the early years of Bantu Education, a lot of effort was made to use the wages earned by Africans as the basis of funding the education instead of taxing employers. Although the national party was not willing to endorse adequate academic training and skills training, the education served the interests and needs of the industry hence there was no ill relationship between capital and the state.

Anybody was in a position to tell that the educational policies of the government were intended at ensuring that black people secured very few opportunities with regard to employment. They were only prepared to render ready unskilled or skilled labor. This was the relationship between the Bantu Education and the industry (Ballantine 55).

Later in the 1950s, Bantu Education was compatible with the significant expansion of the capitalist economy. However, in the 1960s, the educational policies of the state brought about friction between the government and the industry.

The state used force to give its organisational and ideological interests the first over more particular interests of business and the industry. Under the guise of concentrating growth of secondary, technical and tertiary education in the homelands, the government succeeded in using the urban school system as a tool of influx control. Education was used to propagate apartheid policy.

The purpose of any educational system is to equip pupils with relevant knowledge that prepares them for future occupational roles and transforms the society as a whole. However, the Bantu Education that was practiced in South Africa was a faulty education system that could not transform the society.

In the eyes of structural functionalists and neo-Marxist sociologists, it was detrimental to the social and economic development of the country. The main focus of structural functionalists is to look at how education contributes towards the well-being of the society. It plays an important role since it forms the basis of modern society by equipping learners with relevant skills that prepare them for adult life.

However, according to structural functionalists Bantu Education was devoid of this important function of education. It was racist in nature and could not bring the society together. It was inspired by apartheid and instead of preparing the learners for a cohesive society, it led to more divisions. The system was aimed at ensuring that the black people did not get jobs that were regarded as white men’s. In this structural functionalist perspective, the education system was detrimental to the social and economic development of South Africa.

In the eyes of neo-Marxist sociologists, Bantu Education was still harmful to the social and economic development of South Africa. Education to them is supposed to equip the learners with the right attitudes, values and norms that allow them to thrive in a capitalist society.

However, Bantu Education was only interested in giving learners skills that could not allow them to thrive in a capitalist society. For instance, the skills that were being passed to them could only allow them to be used in the provision of cheap unskilled or semi-skilled labor.

Neo-Marxists also believe that education is supposed to equip learners with the right skills to provide various labor types required by capitalists. On the contrary, Bantu Education provided learners with skills that could only be applied in limited areas. It was even a disadvantage to the capitalists since they could not get skilled labor whenever they required it. The education system was therefore detrimental to the social and economic development of South Africa.

Education plays an important role in preparing children for their future occupational roles by equipping them with the right values, norms and attitudes. This enables them to make positive contributions in the society. Although structural functionalists and neo-Marxists hold some differing views on the purpose of education, they both share a common belief that education plays an important role in transforming the society.

However, the Bantu Education in South Africa was discriminatory in nature and prevented societal development. According to the two groups of sociologists, it was detrimental towards the social and economic development of South Africa.

Ballantine, Jeanne. The sociology of education: A systematic analysis, Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall, 1993.Print.

Blackledge, David and Barry Hunt. Sociological interpretations of education, London: Routledge, 1985.Print.

Hyslop, Jonathan. The classroom struggle: policy and resistance in South Africa,1940-1990, Pietermaritzburg: University of Natal Press, 1999.Print.

Martin, Ruhr. The Sociology of Education, Pretoria: University of South Africa, 2006.Print.

  • Chicago (A-D)
  • Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2019, September 27). Bantu Education in South Africa. https://ivypanda.com/essays/bantu-education-in-south-africa-essay/

"Bantu Education in South Africa." IvyPanda , 27 Sept. 2019, ivypanda.com/essays/bantu-education-in-south-africa-essay/.

IvyPanda . (2019) 'Bantu Education in South Africa'. 27 September.

IvyPanda . 2019. "Bantu Education in South Africa." September 27, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/bantu-education-in-south-africa-essay/.

1. IvyPanda . "Bantu Education in South Africa." September 27, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/bantu-education-in-south-africa-essay/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Bantu Education in South Africa." September 27, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/bantu-education-in-south-africa-essay/.

  • South African Indigenous Groups: Precolonial Era
  • Effects of Islamic Civilization: Asia and Africa
  • Food Landscape in the Western Province, Kenya
  • Civil Rights Initiatives in the 20th Century
  • Community Development: History, Themes and Issues
  • Global Focus in Cultural Diversity
  • Humour and Jokes: What's So Funny?
  • Middle Eastern Society and North American Society

Media for this essay

  • Soweto Student Uprising
  • Eddie Daniels [:20]
  • Obed Bapela [1:11]
  • Bantu Education in Action
  • Biographies

Bantu Education

"In 1953 the government passed the Bantu Education Act, which the people didn't want. We didn't want this bad education for our children. This Bantu Education Act was to make sure that our children only learnt things that would make them good for what the government wanted: to work in the factories and so on; they must not learn properly at school like the white children. Our children were to go to school only three hours a day, two shifts of children every day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, so that more children could get a little bit of learning without government having to spend more money. Hawu! It was a terrible thing that act." Baard and Schreiner, My Spirit is Not Banned, Part 2
There is no space for him [the "Native"] in the European Community above certain forms of labor. For this reason it is of no avail for him to receive training which has its aim in the absorption of the European Community, where he cannot be absorbed. Until now he has been subjected to a school system which drew him away from his community and misled him by showing him the greener pastures of European Society where he is not allowed to graze. (quoted in Kallaway, 92)

Apartheid Quotes About Bantu Education

Hulton Archive / Getty Images

  • American History
  • African American History
  • Ancient History and Culture
  • Asian History
  • European History
  • Latin American History
  • Medieval & Renaissance History
  • Military History
  • The 20th Century
  • Women's History
  • Postgraduate Certificate in Education, University College London
  • M.S., Imperial College London
  • B.S., Heriot-Watt University

Bantu Education, the separate and limited experience encountered by non-whites in South Africa when pursuing an education, was a cornerstone of the apartheid philosophy. The following quotes illustrate the diverse viewpoints about Bantu Education from both sides of the anti-Apartheid struggle.

Apartheid Quotes

  • " It has been decided that for the sake of uniformity English and Afrikaans will be used as media of instruction in our schools on a 50-50 basis as follows: English medium: General Science, Practical Subjects (Homecraft, Needlework, Wood and Metalwork, Art, Agricultural Science) Afrikaans medium : Mathematics, Arithmetic, Social Studies Mother Tongue : Religion Instruction, Music, Physical Culture The prescribed medium for these subject must be used as from January 1975. In 1976 secondary schools will continue using the same medium for these subjects. " --Signed JG Erasmus, Regional Director of Bantu Education, 17 October 1974.
  • " There is no place for [the Bantu] in the European community above the level of certain forms of labour ... What is the use of teaching the Bantu child mathematics when it cannot use it in practice? That is quite absurd. Education must train people in accordance with their opportunities in life, according to the sphere in which they live. " -- Dr Hendrik Verwoerd , South African minister for native affairs (prime minister from 1958 to 66), speaking about his government's education policies in the 1950s. As quoted in Apartheid - A History by Brian Lapping, 1987.
  • " I have not consulted the African people on the language issue and I'm not going to. An African might find that 'the big boss' only spoke Afrikaans or only spoke English. It would be to his advantage to know both languages. " --South African Deputy Minister of Bantu Education, Punt Janson, 1974.
  • " We shall reject the whole system of Bantu Education whose aim is to reduce us, mentally and physically, into 'hewers of wood and drawers of water'. " --Soweto Sudents Representative Council, 1976.
  • " We should not give the Natives any academic education. If we do, who is going to do the manua labour in the community? " --JN le Roux, National Party politician, 1945.
  • " School boycotts are but the tip of the iceberg – the crux of the matter is the oppressive political machinery itself. " --Azanian Students Organisation, 1981.
  • " I have seen very few countries in the world that have such inadequate educational conditions. I was shocked at what I saw in some of the rural areas and homelands. Education is of fundamental importance. There is no social, political, or economic problem you can solve without adequate education. " --Robert McNamara, ex-president of the World Bank, during visit to South Africa in 1982.
  • " The education we receive is meant to keep the South African people apart from one another, to breed suspicion, hatred and violence, and to keep us backward. Education is formulated so as to reproduce this society of racism and exploitation. " --Congress of South African Students, 1984.
  • The Afrikaans Medium Decree
  • 16 June 1976 Student Uprising in Soweto
  • A Brief History of South African Apartheid
  • South Africa's Apartheid Era Population Registration Act
  • The End of South African Apartheid
  • Biography of Nontsikelelo Albertina Sisulu, South African Activist
  • South Africa's Extension of University Education Act of 1959
  • The Origins of Apartheid in South Africa
  • Understanding South Africa's Apartheid Era
  • Biography of Martin Thembisile (Chris) Hani, South African Activist
  • School Enrollment in Apartheid Era South Africa
  • South Africa's National Holidays
  • South African Apartheid-Era Identity Numbers
  • Apartheid Era Signs - Racial Segregation in South Africa
  • What Was Apartheid in South Africa?
  • Group Areas Act No. 41 of 1950

write a short story about bantu education

My Children! My Africa!

Athol fugard, ask litcharts ai: the answer to your questions, mr. m (anela myalatya) quotes in my children my africa.

Protest, Dissent, and Violence Theme Icon

The truth is, I’ve seen too much of it Isabel. Wasted people! Wasted chances! It’s become a phobia with me now. It’s not easy you know to be a teacher, to put your heart and soul into educating an eager young mind which you know will never get a chance to develop further and realize its full potential. The thought that you and Thami would be another two victims of this country’s lunacy, was almost too much for me.

Education Theme Icon

Knowledge has banished fear.

Apartheid, Race, and Human Connection Theme Icon

(Thumping his chest with a clenched fist) I’ve got a whole zoo in here, a mad zoo of hungry animals … and the keeper is frightened! All of them. Mad and savage!

Look at me! I’m sweating today. I’ve been sweating for a week. Why? Because one of those animals, the one called Hope, has broken loose and is looking for food. Don’t be fooled by its gentle name. It is as dangerous as Hate and Despair would be if they ever managed to break out. You think I’m exaggerating? Pushing my metaphor a little too far? Then I’d like to put you inside a black skin and ask you to keep Hope alive, find food for it on these streets where our children, our loved and precious children go hungry and die of malnutrition. No, believe me, it is a dangerous animal for a black man to have prowling around in his heart. So how do I manage to keep mine alive, you ask. Friends, I am going to let you in on a terrible secret. That is why I am a teacher.

THAMI: His ideas about change are the old-fashioned ones. And what have they achieved? Nothing. We are worse off now than we ever were. The people don’t want to listen to his kind of talk anymore.

ISABEL: I’m still lost, Thami. What kind of talk is that?

THAMI: You’ve just heard it, Isabel. It calls our struggle vandalism and lawless behavior. It’s the sort of talk that expects us to do nothing and wait quietly for white South Africa to wake up. If we listen to it our grandchildren still won’t know what it means to be Free.

Protest, Dissent, and Violence Theme Icon

I’ve told you before: sitting in a classroom doesn’t mean the same thing to me that it does to you. That classroom is a political reality in my life—it’s a part of the whole political system we’re up against and Mr. M has chosen to identify himself with it.

You used the word friendship a few minutes ago. It’s a beautiful word and I’ll do anything to make it true for us. But don’t let’s cheat Thami. If we can’t be open and honest with each other and say what is in our hearts, we’ve got no right to use it.

I don’t think I want to be a doctor anymore. That praiseworthy ambition has unfortunately died in me. It still upsets me very much when I think about the pain and suffering of my people, but I realize now that what causes most of it is not an illness that can be cured by the pills and bottles of medicine they hand out at the clinic. I don’t need to go to university to learn what my people really need is a strong double-dose of that traditional old Xhosa remedy called “Inkululeko.” Freedom. So right now I’m not sure what I want to be anymore. It’s hard, you see, for us “bright young blacks” to dream about wonderful careers as doctors, or lawyers, when we keep waking up in a world which doesn’t allow the majority of our people any dreams at all.

I look around me in the location at the men and women who went out into that “wonderful future” before me. What do I see? Happy and contented shareholders in this exciting enterprise called the Republic of South Africa? No. I see a generation of tired, defeated men and women crawling back to their miserable little pondoks at the end of a day’s work for the white baas or madam. And those are the lucky ones.

Does Oom Dawie think we are blind? That when we walk through the streets of the white town we do not see the big houses and the beautiful gardens with their swimming pools full of laughing people, and compare it with what we’ve got, what we have to call home? Or does Oom Dawie just think we are very stupid?

My head is rebellious. It refuses now to remember when the Dutch landed, and the Huguenots landed, and the British landed. It has already forgotten when the Old Union became the proud young Republic. But it does know what happened in Kliptown in 1955, in Sharpeville on twenty-first March 1960 and in Soweto on the sixteenth of June 1976. Do you? Better find out because those are dates your children will have to learn one day. We don’t need Zolile classrooms anymore. We know now what they really are—traps which have been carefully set to catch our minds, our souls. No, good people. We have woken up at last. We have found another school—the streets, the little rooms, the funeral parlors of the location—anywhere the people meet and whisper names we have been told to forget, the dates of events they try to tell us never happened, and the speeches they try to say were never made.

MR. M: Do you think I agree with this inferior “Bantu Education” that is being forced on you?

THAMI: You teach it.

MR. M: But unhappily so! Most unhappily, unhappily so! Don’t you know that? Did you have your fingers in your ears the thousand times I’ve said so in the classroom? Where were you when I stood there and said I regarded it as my duty, my deepest obligation to you young men and women to sabotage it, and that my conscience would not let me rest until I had succeeded. And I have! Yes, I have succeeded! I have got irrefutable proof of my success. You! Yes. You can stand here and accuse me, unjustly, because I have also had a struggle and I have won mine. I have liberated your mind in spite of what the Bantu Education was trying to do to it.

Be careful, Thami. Be careful! Be careful! Don’t scorn words. They are sacred! Magical! Yes, they are. Do you know that without words a man can’t think? Yes, it’s true. […] If the struggle needs weapons give it words Thami. Stones and petrol bombs can’t get inside those armored cars. Words can. They can do something even more devastating than that … they can get inside the heads of those inside the armored cars. I speak to you like this because if I have faith in anything, it is faith in the power of the word. Like my master, the great Confucius, I believe that, using only words, a man can right a wrong and judge and execute the wrongdoer. You are meant to use words like that.

I ended up on the corner where Mrs. Makatini always sits selling vetkoek and prickly pears to people waiting for the bus. The only person there was little Sipho Fondini from Standard Six, writing on the wall: “Liberation First, then Education.” He saw me and he called out: “Is the spelling right Mr. M?” And he meant it! The young eyes in that smoke-stained little face were terribly serious.

Somewhere else a police van raced past me crowded with children who should have also been in their desks in school. Their hands waved desperately through the bars, their voices called out: “Teacher! Teacher! Help us! Tell our mothers. Tell our fathers.”

Mr. M alone in Number One Classroom. He is ringing his school bell wildly. MR. M: Come to school! Come to school. Before they kill you all, come to school!

Silence. Mr. M looks around the empty classroom. He goes to his table, and after composing himself, opens the class register and reads out the names as he does every morning at the start of a new school day.

Johnny Awu, living or dead? Christopher Bandla, living or dead? Zandile Cwati, living or dead? Semphiwe Dambuza…Ronald Gxasheka…Noloyiso Mfundweni…Steven Gaika…Zachariah Jabavu…Thami…Thami Mbikwana…

(Pause) Living or dead?

(Picks up his dictionary. The stone in one hand, the book in the other) You know something interesting, Thami…if you put these two on a scale I think you would find that they weighed just about the same. But in this hand I am holding the whole English language. This… (The stone) is just one word in that language. It’s true! All that wonderful poetry that you and Isabel tried to cram into your beautiful heads…in here! Twenty-six letters, sixty thousand words. The greatest souls the world has ever known were able to open the floodgates of their ecstasy, their despair, their joy!…with the words in this little book! Aren’t you tempted? I was.

(Opens the book at the flyleaf and reads) “Anela Myalatya. Cookhouse. 1947.” One of the first books I ever bought. (Impulsively) I want you to have it.

I sat here before going to the police station saying to myself that it was my duty, to my conscience, to you, to the whole community to do whatever I could to put an end to this madness of boycotts and arson, mob violence and lawlessness…and maybe that is true…but only maybe…because Thami, the truth is that I was so lonely! You had deserted me. I was so jealous of those who had taken you away. Now, I’ve really lost you, haven’t I? Yes. I can see it in your eyes. You’ll never forgive me for doing that, will you?

Something grabbed my heart at that moment, my soul, and squeezed it until there were tears in my eyes. I had never seen anything so big, so beautiful in all my life. I went to the teacher who was with us and asked him: “Teacher, where will I come to if I start walking that way?”…and I pointed. He laughed. “Little man,” he said, “that way is north. If you start walking that way and just keep on walking, and your legs don’t give in, you will see all of Africa!” […] “Has teacher seen all that?” I asked. “No,” he said. “Then how does teacher know it’s there?” “Because it is all in the books and I have read the books and if you work hard in school little man, you can do the same without worrying about your legs giving in.”

He was right Thami. I have seen it. It is all there in the books just as he said it was and I have made it mine.

(Pause) Not knowing their names doesn’t matter anymore. They are more than just themselves. The tribesmen and dead child do duty for all of us Thami. Every African soul is either carrying that bundle or in it. What is wrong with this world that it wants to waste you all like that…my children…my Africa!

(Holding out a hand as if he wanted to touch Thami’s face) My beautiful and proud young Africa!

There is nothing wrong with me! All I need is someone to tell me why he was killed. What madness drove those people to kill a man who had devoted his whole life to helping them. He was such a good man Thami! He was one of the most beautiful human beings I have ever known and his death is one of the ugliest things I have ever known.

I don’t call it murder, and I don’t call the people who did it a mad mob and yes, I do expect you to see it as an act of self-defense—listen to me!—blind and stupid but still self-defense.

Try to understand, Isabel. Try to imagine what it is like to be a black person, choking inside with rage and frustration, bitterness, and then to discover that one of your own kind is a traitor, has betrayed you to those responsible for the suffering and misery of your family, of your people. What would you do? Remember there is no magistrate or court you can drag him to and demand that he be tried for that crime. There is no justice for black people in this country other than what we make for ourselves. When you judge us for what happened in front of the school four days ago just remember that you carry a share of the responsibility for it. It is your laws that have made simple, decent black people so desperate that they turn into “mad mobs.”

I’ve brought you something which I know will mean more to you than flowers or prayers ever could. A promise. I am going to make Anela Myalatya a promise.

You gave me a little lecture once about wasted lives . . . how much of it you’d seen, how much you hated it, how much you didn’t want that to happen to Thami and me. I sort of understood what you meant at the time. Now, I most certainly do. Your death has seen to that.

My promise to you is that I am going to try as hard as I can, in every way that I can, to see that it doesn’t happen to me. I am going to try my best to make my life useful in the way yours was. I want you to be proud of me. After all, I am one of your children you know. You did welcome me to your family.

(A pause) The future is still ours, Mr. M.

My Children! My Africa! PDF

  • Society and Politics
  • Art and Culture
  • Biographies
  • Publications

Home

Bantu Education Act, Act No 47 of 1953

The Act was to provide for the transfer of the adminiustration and control of native education from the several provincial administrations to the Government of the Union of South Africa, and for matters incidental thereto

Know something about this topic?

Towards a people's history

Modern Classroom

20 Questions and Answers Based on the Bantu Education Act

Table of Contents

Introduction

The Bantu Education Act of 1953 was a significant piece of apartheid legislation in South Africa that had a profound impact on the educational system for Black South Africans. It played a role in institutionalising racial segregation and inequality. Below are questions and answers that provide insight into this act, suitable for high school learners in South Africa.

Questions and Answers

  • The Bantu Education Act was a law passed in 1953 that segregated educational institutions in South Africa along racial lines. It aimed to control the education of Black South Africans and ensure it was in line with the government’s apartheid policies.
  • The Act was implemented to align the education of Black South Africans with the apartheid government’s goals, limiting their access to quality education and preparing them only for menial jobs.
  • The Act led to inferior educational facilities, resources, and curriculum for Black South Africans. It perpetuated inequality by limiting educational and job opportunities, and suppressing political dissent.
  • People resisted the Act through protests, boycotts, and forming alternative educational structures. The most notable resistance was the Soweto Uprising in 1976, where students protested against the forced use of Afrikaans in schools.
  • The Bantu Education Act was officially repealed in 1994 with the end of apartheid. It was replaced by new policies aiming for a more inclusive and equal education system.
  • The government claimed that the Act was meant to tailor education for Black South Africans according to their “cultural and community needs.” In reality, this was a smokescreen for maintaining racial inequality and ensuring that Black South Africans were only prepared for labor-intensive roles.
  • Dr. Hendrik Verwoerd was the Minister of Native Affairs at the time of the Act’s passing and later became Prime Minister. He was a key architect of the Bantu Education Act, arguing that Black South Africans should be educated according to their place in society.
  • Many Black teachers were not adequately trained, and the curriculum was restricted to ensure it was in line with apartheid ideology. This led to a substandard quality of education and a lack of critical thinking in classrooms.
  • The education for Black South Africans under the Bantu Education Act was vastly inferior, with fewer resources, overcrowded classrooms, outdated materials, and a limited curriculum. In contrast, white South Africans enjoyed well-resourced schools and a broader, more advanced curriculum.
  • How does the legacy of the Bantu Education Act continue to affect South Africa’s education system today?
  • The unequal allocation of resources and the deliberate under-education of Black South Africans has had long-lasting effects, creating disparities that persist in the education system even today. Challenges in achieving equal and quality education for all South Africans can be traced back to the policies and practices of the Bantu Education Act.
  • What were some of the international reactions to the Bantu Education Act?
  • The Act received widespread condemnation from various international entities and human rights organizations. It was seen as a blatant violation of human rights and contributed to growing international pressure against the apartheid regime.
  • Were there any other apartheid laws that worked in conjunction with the Bantu Education Act?
  • The Bantu Education Act was part of a broader system of apartheid laws, working in conjunction with others like the Population Registration Act and Group Areas Act, to enforce racial segregation and inequality across all aspects of life, including education.
  • How did the Bantu Education Act affect rural areas specifically?
  • In rural areas, the Act’s effects were particularly pronounced, with schools often lacking even basic facilities and resources. The education provided was geared towards agricultural and manual labor, further limiting opportunities for rural Black South Africans.
  • What was the role of missionary schools during the implementation of the Bantu Education Act?
  • Before the Act, many Black South Africans were educated in missionary schools. With the Act’s passage, these schools either had to conform to the government’s curriculum or lose state funding. Many closed down, and others struggled to maintain quality education under restrictive regulations.
  • What other laws were enacted to support the Bantu Education Act in suppressing Black education?
  • Laws like the Extension of University Education Act of 1959 restricted Black South Africans’ access to universities, furthering the goals of the Bantu Education Act by limiting higher education opportunities.
  • How did the Bantu Education Act affect gender roles in education?
  • The Act reinforced traditional gender roles, with education for girls often focused on domestic skills, further limiting their opportunities for professional and personal development.
  • How did Black South African parents react to the Bantu Education Act?
  • Many were deeply concerned and frustrated but had limited means to oppose the Act. Some parents became involved in protests, while others sought alternative education options, such as sending their children to non-government-controlled schools when possible.
  • What was the role of language in the Bantu Education Act, and why was it significant?
  • Language played a crucial role, as the Act dictated that Black South Africans be taught in their native language for certain subjects, restricting their ability to learn in English or Afrikaans. This had long-term implications for accessing higher education and job opportunities.
  • How did the Bantu Education Act contribute to the broader political resistance against apartheid?
  • The inequality and injustice perpetuated by the Act galvanized political resistance, fueling the struggle against apartheid. Many leaders and activists were motivated by their experiences under the Bantu Education system.
  • What lessons can modern South Africa and the global community learn from the Bantu Education Act?
  • The Act provides a stark lesson in how education can be used as a tool for oppression and inequality. It emphasizes the importance of vigilance, advocacy, and commitment to equitable education as fundamental to democratic society and human development.

The Bantu Education Act stands as a somber reminder of how law and policy can be manipulated to entrench inequality and discrimination. By delving into its various aspects, we can appreciate the complexity of its impact and the lasting legacy it has left on South African society. Understanding the Act in its full context is essential not only for historical awareness but also for informing present-day efforts to build a just and inclusive educational system in South Africa and beyond. The insights gleaned from this exploration contribute to the broader understanding of social justice, human rights, and the power of education as both a potential tool for oppression and a means of liberation and empowerment.

Did You See These?

  • Why is the Bantu Education Act important to know about today?

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

write a short story about bantu education

Leave a Comment

Please share your views or anecdotes, particularly if you were present or affected by the events described in this poster, photograph or document.

Thank you for your comment

Your comment will appear on the website as soon as it is approved by a moderator.

write a short story about bantu education

distinctionpass.com

Press ESC to close

Or check our popular categories....

Writing a Conclusion for an Essay on "Why the Bantu Education Act Is Interesting or Important to Know About Today"

Guide: Writing a Conclusion for an Essay on “Why the Bantu Education Act Is Interesting or Important to Know About Today”

Guide: Writing a Conclusion for an Essay on “Why the Bantu Education Act Is Interesting or Important to Know About Today:

Writing a conclusion for an essay about the Bantu Education Act requires not only a summary of the points discussed but also a reflection on the act’s lasting impact and its relevance in today’s society. The Bantu Education Act, implemented in 1953 in South Africa, was a law designed to systematically segregate education by race, significantly disadvantaging black South African students. Understanding its implications helps to grasp the roots of educational disparities and racial attitudes in contemporary South Africa and beyond. This guide will help you craft a compelling conclusion that underscores the significance of this law and its relevance today.

Step 1: Restate the Thesis

Begin your conclusion by succinctly restating your thesis statement , reminding the reader of the primary argument of your essay . This restatement should reflect on why it is crucial to understand the Bantu Education Act in the context of current issues.

  • Example: “The Bantu Education Act was not just a policy of its time but a deliberate attempt to institutionalize racial inequality through education, the effects of which resonate in today’s ongoing struggle for educational equity.”

Step 2: Summarize Key Points

Briefly summarize the key points made throughout your essay that support your thesis. Highlight how the Act was designed, its impact on black South African communities, and the legacy it has left on the educational system.

  • The Act’s aim to limit black South Africans’ access to quality education.
  • The systemic creation of educational disparities between races.
  • The long-term effects on employment and socio-economic status for black South Africans.

Step 3: Reflect on the Current Relevance

Discuss the current relevance of understanding the Bantu Education Act. This could include drawing parallels between past educational policies and current disparities, the importance of historical context in addressing racial inequalities, or how the Act informs present-day educational reforms and societal attitudes.

  • Example: “Today, the Bantu Education Act serves as a stark reminder of how laws can entrench societal inequalities and highlights the importance of education in shaping societal values and opportunities.”

Step 4: Emphasize the Importance of Awareness

Argue why awareness and understanding of the Bantu Education Act are crucial for current and future generations. This can involve a call to action, a reflection on the importance of learning from history, or a discussion on the role of education in societal change.

  • Example: “Recognizing the enduring legacy of the Bantu Education Act is essential not only for rectifying past injustices but also for guiding current efforts towards creating a more equitable educational landscape.”

Step 5: Conclude with a Strong Closing Statement

End your conclusion with a powerful statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader. This should tie back to the broader implications of the essay and the significance of the topic.

  • Example: “As we reflect on the Bantu Education Act and its consequences, we are reminded of the profound impact of educational policies on the fabric of society. Understanding this piece of history is crucial in our collective journey towards an inclusive and equitable future.”

Final Tips:

  • Keep it concise: Your conclusion should be succinct and to the point, ideally no more than a few sentences or a paragraph.
  • Connect to the present: Make sure to articulate why this historical issue remains relevant today.
  • End on a hopeful note: While acknowledging the challenges, try to conclude with a message of hope or progress, emphasizing the possibility of positive change.

By following these steps, your conclusion will effectively underscore the significance of the Bantu Education Act, engaging readers with its historical importance and its implications for contemporary society.

Table of Contents

Examples for Writing a Conclusion for an Essay on “Why the Bantu Education Act Is Interesting or Important to Know About Today”

Example 1: the significance of the bantu education act.

In conclusion, the Bantu Education Act remains a critical chapter in South Africa’s history, serving as a clear example of apartheid’s dehumanizing policies. By institutionalizing racial disparities in education, this Act not only curtailed the potential of generations but also laid the groundwork for enduring socio-economic divides. Today, its legacy prompts a critical examination of current educational inequalities and the importance of implementing policies that foster genuine equity. Awareness and understanding of this Act are indispensable for both acknowledging the injustices of the past and ensuring they are not repeated. It stands as a testament to the power of education as a tool for liberation or oppression, emphasizing the responsibility to cultivate learning environments that uplift all members of society.

Example 2: Understanding the Bantu Education Act Today

The Bantu Education Act’s historical context and its ramifications are not merely academic; they are vivid reminders of how systemic injustices can shape societies for decades. This Act’s deliberate undermining of black South Africans’ educational opportunities has left scars that are visible in today’s educational and economic landscapes. Recognizing the Act’s role in apartheid’s broader strategy of segregation is essential for comprehending the complexities of current racial disparities. As we move forward, this understanding underscores the urgency of dismantling remaining barriers to equality in education, reaffirming the principle that education should empower, not exclude. Hence, reflecting on the Bantu Education Act enlightens the path towards a more equitable future, making its study both interesting and imperative.

Example 3: The Legacy of the Bantu Education Act

Reflecting on the Bantu Education Act reveals much about the persistent challenges within South Africa’s education system and the global struggle against racial injustice. By marginalizing a significant portion of the population from quality education, the Act contributed to a cycle of poverty and disenfranchisement that continues to affect millions. Its examination today is not just about historical curiosity but about understanding the roots of inequality to effectively address them. In bringing awareness to such laws, we are reminded of the importance of vigilance in protecting the rights and dignity of all individuals. The Act’s enduring significance lies in its lesson that the fight for educational equity is ongoing, requiring continuous effort and dedication.

Example 4: The Continued Relevance of the Bantu Education Act

The Bantu Education Act offers more than a glimpse into apartheid’s cruel machinations; it serves as a critical lesson on the impact of education—or the lack thereof—on societal development and individual potential. In today’s world, where knowledge is power, understanding this Act’s consequences highlights the need for inclusive educational policies that recognize and celebrate diversity. It challenges us to question who has access to education and on what terms, prompting reflections on our progress towards truly democratic societies. By delving into the Act’s history, we not only pay homage to those who suffered under its regime but also commit to a future where education is a tool for unity and growth, not division.

Example 5: The Importance of the Bantu Education Act in Modern Discourse

In summarizing the impact of the Bantu Education Act, it’s clear that this policy was more than an educational framework; it was a systematic approach to suppress a population’s aspirations and freedoms. Its relevance extends into the present day, serving as a cautionary tale of how legislation can be used to perpetuate inequality. Studying this Act allows us to appreciate the strides made towards equality and the pitfalls that remain. It embodies the imperative to remain vigilant in safeguarding the right to education for all, ensuring that future generations are empowered through learning. As such, the Bantu Education Act is not just a relic of the past but a cornerstone for understanding and overcoming the challenges of today.

Categorized in:

Like what you read?

Subscribe to our newsletter.

Subscribe to our email newsletter to get the latest posts delivered right to your email.

Related Articles

30+ unprepared speech topics for grade 10, effects of load shedding essay guide, why i admire nelson mandela essay guide and example, apartheid south africa 1940s to 1960s essay for grade 11, previous article, discussing why unequal access to basic services could give rise to social injustices, next article.

Self Discovery Blog logo

47 Questions and Answers Based on Bantu Education Act

write a short story about bantu education

A distinct educational system for black South Africans was established by the Bantu Education Act, a law passed by South Africa in 1953. The apartheid regime enacted the law as part of a larger plan to segregate and discriminate based on race.

Black pupils were subjected to a restricted curriculum under the Bantu Education Act, which was created to educate them for a life of manual labor and other low-skilled jobs.

The law also significantly curtailed funding for black schools, which led to subpar buildings and insufficient supplies.

The Bantu Education Act was still in force until apartheid ended in the early 1990s. Today the law’s consequences are still clearly felt and the educational system is still incredibly unequal because the Bantu Education Act left a lasting impact.

Related: 10 Effects & Impact of Bantu Education Act in South Africa 

Questions and Answers Based on the Bantu Education Act

Here are some questions and answers about the Bantu Education Act:

What was the Bantu Education Act?

The Bantu Education Act was a South African law passed in 1953 that set up a separate system of education for black South Africans. The law was introduced by the apartheid government and was part of its broader strategy of racial segregation and discrimination.

What did the Bantu Education Act do?

The Bantu Education Act established a separate and inferior education system for black South Africans. It limited the curriculum that black students were taught and severely restricted the funding of black schools, resulting in poor facilities and inadequate resources.

Why was the Bantu Education Act introduced?

The Bantu Education Act was introduced by the apartheid government as part of its broader strategy of racial segregation and discrimination. The government believed that black South Africans should not receive the same education as white South Africans, as they were considered to be of a lower status.

What was the impact of the Bantu Education Act?

The Bantu Education Act had a devastating impact on black South Africans, as it limited their access to education and severely restricted their opportunities for social and economic mobility. The law also perpetuated racial inequality in South Africa, which is still being felt today.

When was the Bantu Education Act repealed?

The Bantu Education Act was not formally repealed, but it was replaced by a new education system in 1994, following the end of apartheid. The new system aimed to provide equal education opportunities for all South Africans, regardless of race.

Who opposed the Bantu Education Act?

Many individuals and organizations opposed the Bantu Education Act, including black South Africans, anti-apartheid activists, and some white South Africans who believed in racial equality. 

Some of the most notable opponents of the law included Nelson Mandela, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and the African National Congress (ANC).

What was the role of teachers in implementing the Bantu Education Act?

Many teachers in South Africa were opposed to the Bantu Education Act, as they believed that it would limit the opportunities of black South African students. 

However, some teachers did comply with the law and taught the limited curriculum that was prescribed for black students. Others found ways to resist the law and provide a more comprehensive education to their students, often at great personal risk.

How did the Bantu Education Act contribute to the end of apartheid?

The Bantu Education Act was one of the key policies of the apartheid government that contributed to the eventual downfall of the system. 

The law led to widespread protests and resistance from black South Africans, who demanded equal education opportunities and an end to racial discrimination.

The struggle against the Bantu Education Act was part of a broader movement for social and political change in South Africa, which ultimately led to the end of apartheid

When was the Bantu Education Act introduced?

The Bantu Education Act was introduced in South Africa in 1953.

Who was the Minister of Native Affairs when the Bantu Education Act was introduced?

The Minister of Native Affairs at the time was Hendrik Verwoerd.

What was Verwoerd’s justification for introducing the Bantu Education Act?

Verwoerd believed that black South Africans should receive an education that was tailored to their supposed “natural” abilities, which he believed were limited to manual labor and other low-skilled work.

How did the Bantu Education Act differ from the education system for white South Africans?

The education system for white South Africans was more comprehensive and provided greater opportunities for social and economic mobility, while the system for black South Africans was limited and designed to prepare them for a life of manual labor.

What was the role of the Department of Native Affairs in implementing the Bantu Education Act?

The Department of Native Affairs was responsible for overseeing the implementation of the Bantu Education Act, including the establishment of new schools and the development of a limited curriculum for black students.

How did the Bantu Education Act contribute to the development of “Bantu homelands” in South Africa?

The Bantu Education Act was part of the apartheid government’s broader strategy of creating “Bantu homelands,” or areas of the country where black South Africans were forced to live. 

Related: Bantu Education Act Essay (300 Words) + PDF

The law was designed to limit the education and opportunities of black South Africans, which helped to entrench their second-class status.

What was the reaction of black South Africans to the Bantu Education Act?

Black South Africans were outraged by the Bantu Education Act, as they saw it as a clear attempt to limit their opportunities and perpetuate racial discrimination.

Bantu Education Act Interview Questions and Answers

How did the bantu education act impact the lives of black south african women.

The Bantu Education Act had a particularly devastating impact on black South African women, as it limited their opportunities for education and employment and reinforced traditional gender roles that relegated them to the home.

How did the Bantu Education Act impact the development of the anti-apartheid movement?

The Bantu Education Act was a key driver of the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa, as it was seen as a clear example of the government’s discriminatory policies and its determination to maintain white minority rule.

What was the role of international organizations in opposing the Bantu Education Act?

Many international organizations, including the United Nations, condemned the Bantu Education Act and supported efforts to oppose it. 

This helped to raise awareness of the issue around the world and put pressure on the South African government to change its policies.

How did the Bantu Education Act contribute to the development of black consciousness in South Africa?

The Bantu Education Act contributed to the development of black consciousness in South Africa by highlighting the need for black South Africans to resist and challenge the apartheid government’s policies. 

This led to the emergence of powerful new political and cultural movements that challenged the status quo.

How did the Bantu Education Act impact the quality of education for black South Africans?

The Bantu Education Act had a severe impact on the quality of education for black South Africans, as it limited the curriculum that they were taught and severely restricted funding for their schools. This led to overcrowded classrooms, inadequate resources, and poorly trained teachers.

What was the impact of the Bantu Education Act on the mental health of black South Africans?

The Bantu Education Act had a negative impact on the mental health of black South Africans causing feelings of frustration, hopelessness, and anger, as it reinforced their second-class status and limited their opportunities for advancement.

How did the Bantu Education Act impact the relationship between black and white South Africans?

The Bantu Education Act contributed to the deterioration of relations between black and white South Africans, as it reinforced racial stereotypes and limited opportunities for interaction and mutual understanding.

How did the Bantu Education Act contribute to the brain drain in South Africa?

The Bantu Education Act contributed to the brain drain in South Africa by limiting opportunities for education and professional advancement, causing many talented individuals to leave the country in search of better opportunities elsewhere.

What was the impact of the Bantu Education Act on the economic development of South Africa?

The Bantu Education Act had a negative impact on the economic development of South Africa, as it limited the skills and education of the majority of the population, which hindered the growth and diversification of the economy.

How did the Bantu Education Act contribute to the development of apartheid policies in South Africa?

The Bantu Education Act was part of the broader apartheid policy framework in South Africa, which sought to maintain white minority rule and limit the opportunities and rights of black South Africans.

How did the Bantu Education Act impact the development of literacy in black South African communities?

The Bantu Education Act had a negative impact on the development of literacy in black South African communities, as it limited access to education and resources, and perpetuated the use of local languages rather than English, which limited opportunities for communication and advancement.

How did the Bantu Education Act impact the development of the South African economy during the apartheid era?

The Bantu Education Act had a negative impact on the development of the South African economy during the apartheid era, as it limited the opportunities and education of the majority of the population, which hindered the growth and diversification of the economy.

How did the Bantu Education Act impact the education of children in urban areas versus rural areas?

The Bantu Education Act had a similar impact on the education of children in both urban and rural areas, as it limited the opportunities for education and advancement regardless of location.

How did the Bantu Education Act impact the development of sports in South Africa?

The Bantu Education Act had a negative impact on the development of sports in South Africa, as it limited the opportunities for education and resources necessary for the development of athletes.

How did the Bantu Education Act impact the development of the arts in South Africa?

The Bantu Education Act had a negative impact on the development of the arts in South Africa, as it limited the opportunities for education and resources necessary for the development of artists.

What was the impact of the Bantu Education Act on the formation of community organizations in South Africa?

The Bantu Education Act contributed to the formation of community organizations in South Africa, as it highlighted the need for collective action and resistance against the apartheid government’s discriminatory policies.

How did the Bantu Education Act impact the development of the healthcare system in South Africa?

The Bantu Education Act had a negative impact on the development of the healthcare system in South Africa, as it limited the opportunities for education and resources necessary for the development of healthcare professionals.

Related: 13 Bibliography of Bantu Education Act 1953

How did the Bantu Education Act impact the development of agriculture in South Africa?

The Bantu Education Act had a negative impact on the development of agriculture in South Africa, as it limited the opportunities for education and resources necessary for the development of skilled agricultural workers.

How did the Bantu Education Act impact the development of the South African economy post-apartheid?

The Bantu Education Act continued to impact the development of the South African economy post-apartheid, as it left a legacy of unequal education and limited opportunities for the majority of the population, which has contributed to ongoing economic inequality.

How did the Bantu Education Act compare to education policies in other African countries during the same period?

The Bantu Education Act was unique to South Africa and differed from education policies in other African countries during the same period, as it was designed to maintain white minority rule and limit the opportunities and education of black South Africans.

How did the Bantu Education Act impact the role of women in South African society?

The Bantu Education Act had a negative impact on the role of women in South African society, as it limited their opportunities for education and professional advancement, reinforcing patriarchal norms and gender inequality.

How did the Bantu Education Act contribute to the formation of resistance movements in South Africa?

The Bantu Education Act contributed to the formation of resistance movements in South Africa, as it highlighted the need for collective action and resistance against the apartheid government’s discriminatory policies, including education policies.

How did the Bantu Education Act impact the development of the African National Congress (ANC) in South Africa?

The Bantu Education Act contributed to the development of the African National Congress (ANC) in South Africa, as it became one of the key issues that the ANC and other anti-apartheid organizations mobilized around, helping to galvanize resistance against the apartheid government.

How did the Bantu Education Act impact the development of the Pan-Africanist Congress (PAC) in South Africa?

The Bantu Education Act contributed to the development of the Pan-Africanist Congress (PAC) in South Africa, as it was one of the key issues that the PAC and other anti-apartheid organizations mobilized around, helping to galvanize resistance against the apartheid government.

How did the Bantu Education Act impact the development of student activism in South Africa?

The Bantu Education Act had a significant impact on the development of student activism in South Africa, as it limited the opportunities for education and advancement for black South African students, which became a key issue that students mobilized around.

How did the Bantu Education Act impact the development of religious institutions in South Africa?

The Bantu Education Act had a negative impact on the development of religious institutions in South Africa, as it limited the opportunities for education and resources necessary for the development of religious leaders and institutions.

How did the Bantu Education Act impact the development of the healthcare system in rural areas of South Africa?

The Bantu Education Act had a negative impact on the development of the healthcare system in rural areas of South Africa, as it limited the opportunities for education and resources necessary for the development of healthcare professionals serving rural communities.

How did the Bantu Education Act impact the development of trade unions in South Africa?

The Bantu Education Act had a significant impact on the development of trade unions in South Africa, as it limited the opportunities for education and professional advancement for black South Africans, which became a key issue that trade unions mobilized around.

How did the Bantu Education Act impact the development of the South African judiciary?

The Bantu Education Act had a negative impact on the development of the South African judiciary, as it limited the opportunities for education and resources necessary for the development of skilled legal professionals.

How did the Bantu Education Act impact the development of the South African police force?

The Bantu Education Act had a negative impact on the development of the South African police force, as it limited the opportunities for education and resources necessary for the development of skilled law enforcement professionals who could serve all communities in South Africa.

How did the Bantu Education Act impact the development of the South African economy?

The Bantu Education Act had a negative impact on the development of the South African economy, as it limited the opportunities for education and professional advancement for black South Africans, resulting in a significant skills gap and contributing to ongoing economic inequality.

How did the Bantu Education Act impact the development of the South African arts and culture sector?

The Bantu Education Act had a negative impact on the development of the South African arts and culture sector, as it limited the opportunities for education and resources necessary for the development of skilled artists and cultural professionals.

How did the Bantu Education Act impact the development of the South African sports sector?

The Bantu Education Act had a negative impact on the development of the South African sports sector, as it limited the opportunities for education and resources necessary for the development of skilled athletes and sports professionals.

We have so far covered 47 questions and answers based on the Bantu Education Act in South Africa. This can help you view the Act in a slightly different form seeing it from various perspectives.

Olusegun Iyejare

Olusegun Iyejare is a career coach and certified counselor. He helps individuals discover and maximize their potential to live satisfying lives regardless of obvious limitations holding them back.

Similar Posts By Author:

Adobe_Express_20230420_1513120_1

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

write a short story about bantu education

Soccer Laduma

Wednesday, 08 May

15 Jun 2017

IMAGES

  1. Bantu Education Act of 1953 by Erica O'Brien on Prezi

    write a short story about bantu education

  2. SOUTH AFRICA: THE BANTU EDUCATION ACT, 1953

    write a short story about bantu education

  3. Bantu education and the racist compartmentalizing of education

    write a short story about bantu education

  4. 13 Bibliography of Bantu Education Act 1953

    write a short story about bantu education

  5. Bantu Education in the Union, 1949-1959: A Bibliography by POTGIETER

    write a short story about bantu education

  6. TO WHAT EXTENT DID THE BANTU EDUCATION ACT CHANGE THE SYSTEM OF BLACK

    write a short story about bantu education

VIDEO

  1. Shode Taqdira De ਸੋਦੇ ਤਕਦੀਰਾਂ ਦੇ (ਭਾਗ1) New Punjabi short movie 2024

  2. Bedtime Stories for Kids

  3. Very Neat writing

  4. Moral Stories for Kids

  5. Origin of the Bantu people #bantu #africanhistory #africa

  6. Bantu Education

COMMENTS

  1. Bantu Education Act

    Bantu Education Act, South African law, enacted in 1953 and in effect from January 1, 1954, that governed the education of Black South African (called Bantu by the country's government) children. It was part of the government's system of apartheid, which sanctioned racial segregation and discrimination against nonwhites in the country.. From about the 1930s the vast majority of schools ...

  2. Bantu Education Act, 1953

    The Bantu Education Act 1953 (Act No. 47 of 1953; later renamed the Black Education Act, 1953) was a South African segregation law that legislated for several aspects of the apartheid system. Its major provision enforced racially-separated educational facilities; [1] Even universities were made "tribal", and all but three missionary schools ...

  3. Bantu Education in South Africa

    For many years, South Africa was exposed to discriminatory actions resulting from the apartheid system. This was extended to the education sector through the introduction of the Bantu Education. This Essay focuses on the nature of the Bantu education system and its shortcomings in the eyes of structural functionalists and neo-Marxist sociologists.

  4. "Bantu Education or the Street" by Norman Levy

    In 1954 African parents were faced with the cruel dilemma of accepting a "rotten education" for their children or "no education at all". As the more militant church leaders said, it was "Bantu education or the street!". Although the Bantu Education Act was potentially the most disabling act introduced by the apartheid regime, the ...

  5. The June 16 Soweto Youth Uprising

    The June 16 1976 Uprising that began in Soweto and spread countrywide profoundly changed the socio-political landscape in South Africa. Events that triggered the uprising can be traced back to policies of the Apartheid government that resulted in the introduction of the Bantu Education Act in 1953. The rise of the Black Consciousness Movement ...

  6. Bantu Education

    The 1953 Bantu Education Act was one of apartheid 's most offensively racist laws. It brought African education under control of the government and extended apartheid to black schools. Previously, most African schools were run by missionaries with some state aid. Nelson Mandela and many other political activists had attended mission schools.

  7. PDF BANTU EDUCATION

    Dr. Verwoerd's exposition of Bantu education contains the out­ worn fallacy'that it is intended to benefit the African. In his pamphW-on Bantu Education, he says:— "The Bantu pupil must obtain knowledge, skills and attitudes in the school which will be useful and advantageous to him, - at the same time beneficial to his community.

  8. The "Bantu Education" System: A Bibliographic Essay

    Brembeck Cole S. and Keith John P. Education in Emerging Africa: A Select and Annotated Bibliography. East Lansing, Michigan: College of Education, Michigan State University, 1966. 3. Catalogue of the Collection of Education in Tropical Areas of the Institute of Education, University of London. Boston: G. K. Hall, 1967. (3 volumes) 4.

  9. A NOTE ON BANTU EDUCATION, 1953 TO 1970

    In 1954 Hendrik Verwoerd, one of the main architects of the apartheid system, said that blacks ought not to be trained above certain "forms of labour". These words, often quoted out of context, are c...

  10. PDF The history of Bantu education: 1948-1994

    1.1 BANTU EDUCATION The word "Bantu" refers to over four hundred ethnic groups in Africa, covering numerous nations from Cameroon to South Africa. They form a common language family, called the Bantu language. The word "Bantu" in the term of Bantu education is highly charged politically and has derogatory connotations.

  11. Es'kia Mphahlele

    Es'kia Mphahlele (born Dec. 17, 1919, Marabastad, S.Af.—died Oct. 27, 2008, Lebowakgomo) was a novelist, essayist, short-story writer, and teacher whose autobiography, Down Second Avenue (1959), is a South African classic. It combines the story of a young man's growth into adulthood with penetrating social criticism of the conditions forced upon black South Africans by apartheid.

  12. The "Bantu Education" System: A Bibliographic Essay

    This essay will attempt to identify and describe materials pertinent to the study of the system of "Bantu education" implemented by the South African government after the passage of the Bantu Education Act in 1953. The included works discuss the background, structure and implications of this system. The subject of the essay is limited to the coverage of the "Bantu Education" Act itself, the ...

  13. South African Apartheid Quotes About Bantu Education

    Education is of fundamental importance. There is no social, political, or economic problem you can solve without adequate education. --Robert McNamara, ex-president of the World Bank, during visit to South Africa in 1982. " The education we receive is meant to keep the South African people apart from one another, to breed suspicion, hatred and ...

  14. Mr. M (Anela Myalatya) Character Analysis

    One of the play's three protagonists, Mr. M is a 57-year-old Black teacher who lives a simple life communing between his rented room and his classroom at Zolile High School in the township of Brakwater.Inspired by ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius's search for wisdom and his own childhood experience learning about Africa from one of his teachers, Mr. M hopes that teaching can change ...

  15. (Pdf) Critical Analysis of Bantu Education Act of 1953 and Implications

    critical analysis of bantu education act of 1953 and implications on covid-19 pandemic in black schools: a social justice perspective May 2022 DOI: 10.25273/she.v3i2.12739

  16. Bantu Education Act, Act No 47 of 1953

    Bantu Education Act, Act No 47 of 1953. The Act was to provide for the transfer of the adminiustration and control of native education from the several provincial administrations to the Government of the Union of South Africa, and for matters incidental thereto. Click here to download.

  17. 20 Questions and Answers Based on the Bantu Education Act

    The Bantu Education Act of 1953 was a significant piece of apartheid legislation in South Africa that had a profound impact on the educational system for Black South Africans. It played a role in institutionalising racial segregation and inequality. Below are questions and answers that provide insight into this act, suitable for high school ...

  18. TEARS: an article with poems, interview, cartoons and short story

    TEARS: an article with poems, interview, cartoons and short story revealing the cruelty of bantu education. Subject: Education; Human rights; Professions : Description: This is an offset litho poster in black and white. The publisher is unknown but it is against the Bantu education system. Creator: Unknown: Type: Poster: Format: Preservation ...

  19. 10 Effects & Impact of Bantu Education Act in South Africa

    Skills gap. One of the elements that contributed to the skill gap in South Africa today was the Bantu Education Act of 1953. This is another effect of the act that lingers today. The law deprived black South Africans of access to a high-quality education, including specialized fields like mathematics, science, and technology.

  20. Guide: Writing a Conclusion for an Essay on "Why the Bantu Education

    Examples for Writing a Conclusion for an Essay on "Why the Bantu Education Act Is Interesting or Important to Know About Today" Example 1: The Significance of the Bantu Education Act. In conclusion, the Bantu Education Act remains a critical chapter in South Africa's history, serving as a clear example of apartheid's dehumanizing policies.

  21. 47 Questions and Answers Based on Bantu Education Act

    A distinct educational system for black South Africans was established by the Bantu Education Act, a law passed by South Africa in 1953. The apartheid regime enacted the law as part of a larger plan to segregate and discriminate based on race. Black pupils were subjected to a restricted curriculum under the Bantu Education Act, […]

  22. 1976 INTERVIEW WITH TSIETSI MASHININI!

    The school simply has a classroom, a blackboard, and the Department of Bantu Education provides the chalk and writing material for the blackboard. Everything else in the classroom is provided by the pupils. After April, the Bantu Education Constitution laid down that if you have not paid the fees you should be sent out from the school.

  23. A Bibliography of Bantu Education in the Union, 1949-1959

    A Bibliography of Bantu Education in the Union, 1949-1959. School of Librarianship, University of Cape Town, 1959 - Black people - 48 pages. Bibliographic information. Title: A Bibliography of Bantu Education in the Union, 1949-1959 Bibliographical series: Compiled by: Laetitia Potgieter: