The Complexities of Race-Based Admissions in South African Universities

Authors

  • Chika Sehoole University of Pretoria
  • Samuel Kolawole Adeyemo University of Pretoria
  • Rakgadi Phatlane University of Pretoria

Keywords:

university admission, racial discrimination, affirmative action, South Africa

Abstract

Race has been a key feature of admissions in South African universities over the last 30 years. The admission policies coined around affirmative action have received conflicting criticisms in the academic literature. Some scholars argue that affirmative action policy promotes mainly the interests of Black students, challenges university autonomy, compromises quality, and recreates a new form of racial discrimination. Some of the views see admission of “Black” as compromising quality and lowering standards. This paper analyzes the different perspectives around race-based admission policies in South African universities and the outcomes of their implementation. It argues for a nuanced approach to admission policies beyond race, and advocates for other features of disadvantage to be considered beyond race.

Author Biographies

Chika Sehoole, University of Pretoria

Chika Sehoole is professor of higher education and dean of the faculty of education at the University of Pretoria, South Africa.

Samuel Kolawole Adeyemo, University of Pretoria

Samuel Kolawole Adeyemo is associate professor at the department of education management and policy studies, University of Pretoria, South Africa.

Rakgadi Phatlane, University of Pretoria

Rakgadi Phatlane is faculty manager at the University of Pretoria, South Africa.

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Published

2024-02-25

How to Cite

Sehoole, C., Adeyemo, S., & Phatlane, R. (2024). The Complexities of Race-Based Admissions in South African Universities. International Higher Education, (117), 16–17. Retrieved from https://ejournals.bc.edu/index.php/ihe/article/view/17513

Issue

No. 117 (2024): Winter Issue

Section

Articles

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