Search Climate Insights Directory

The study examines how the decentralisation of education governance to SGBs under the South African Schools Act of 1996 functions in practice. It finds that in underperforming schools in KwaZulu Natal, SGBs are often ineffective due to low parental participation, significant capacity deficits, and a tendency for principals to dominate decision-making. While SGBs have legal powers over teacher appointments and financial oversight, these are often undermined by political influence, lack of training, and a reactive approach to support from district officials. The paper concludes that the current system of governance is ineffective in underperforming schools, which increases the administrative burden on principals and fails to strategically improve learner outcomes.

The paper examines how the rapid increase in global HIV/AIDS funding creates opportunities for graft and misappropriation, particularly in low-income regions. It highlights cases of fraud in South Africa and Kenya, while discussing the tension between the need for strict financial controls and the limited administrative capacity of grassroots organisations. The author suggests that intermediary organisations may provide a viable model for ensuring accountability while supporting small-scale community responses.

A 2007 government notice issued by the Minister of Water Affairs and Forestry regarding the release of specific State forest land areas in KwaZulu-Natal, which are no longer required for forestry, for allocation to the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism to establish the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park.