EDUCATION IN POSTAPARTHEID SOUTH-AFRICA - SOME LESSONS FROM ZIMBABWE

The racial inequalities of the Rhodesian education system are outlined . The paper then assesses the conservative reforms of the transitional government of 'Zimbabwe-Rhodesia' (1978-80), and the more radical app roach pursued since independence. A case study is made of nine seconda ry schools in Harare. The policies pursued are compared with the inter im measures of the South African government since 1990, and lessons de rived from the Zimbabwean experience are applied to the situation whic h will be inherited by the first post-apartheid government in South Af rica. A new education strategy must seek to avoid the replacement of r acial divisions with class divisions. It will need to re-think what th e State can provide, and formulate strategies for funding what the Sta te cannot provide, in order to minimise inequalities of opportunity.