Development Talk

High school learners work with Equal Education to affect change in their schools.

“Equal Education is a movement of learners, parents, teachers and community members working for quality and equality in South African education, through analysis and activism” (Equal Education Annual Report, 2008).

South African high school learners are taking a lead in making a difference in their schools through their membership to the inspiring NPO, Equal Education.

In an education system which remains mostly unequal, these grade 8 to 12 learners, called “equalisers”, set an example to their peers through their dedication to their own education. They also play a leading role in the activities of the organisation.

Equal Education was founded in 2008 as a community and membership-based organisation. Based in Khayelitsha, Equal Education is research-driven and believes in engaging in “…evidence-based activism for improving the nation’s schools”.

The organisation is premised upon the principles of promoting the right to equality and education, as founded within our constitution. Currently, Equal Education is advocating for functional libraries in all schools- “one school, one library, one librarian”. Prior to this campaign, Equal Education successfully embarked on reducing the number of learners arriving late at schools within Khayelitsha.

Equal Education wants to improve education for all children.

The “equalisers” are described by Equal Education as the most active members of the organisation. They work tirelessly in afternoons, after school, in an effort to effect change in their schools and ultimately communities.

Development Works is inspired by the active participatory nature and structure of the organisation which encourages the ‘ownership’ shown by these young ‘equalisers’ in taking responsibility for their own education.

Click here to visit the Equal Education website.