School-leaving Examinations, Selection and Equity in Higher Education in South Africa

Abstract

This paper explores the international experience in respect of school-leaving examinations and selection for higher education. It briefly states some theories of selection for equity in societies with severe structural inequalities, why and when formal selection is done. It then advances an argument to explain the dual functions of selection in education. International trends in selection for higher education are analysed, also school-leaving examinations and university access in South Africa. The policy and experience in selection for equity at the University of the Western Cape is then discussed, as well as the academic development programme initiated. It concludes with an analysis of some of the dilemmas facing universities committed to redress and equity in the current climate of entitlement.

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