Women defining the horizons: adult education in a rural community in South Africa 1979-2000

Abstract

There is considerable controversy in the Adult Basic Education (ABE) field over its aims, purposes and relationship to social change. ABE has played an important role in South Africa in redressing past educational inequalities. During the period 1979 to 1990 ABE was particularly important for empowerment of women and youth. The acquisition of basic literacy was considered to be one of the vehicles through which 'formerly excluded' adults could attain greater social, political and economic empowerment. Such assumptions also form the foundation for adult education in postapartheid South Africa.

However, the changes in the sector, most notable after 1994, reflect the fonn of a 'new' Adult Basic Education and Training (ABET) that underpins the policy of life¬ long learning. The latter aims to promote the acquisition of knowledge, skills and attitudes required for social and economic transformation. This is relevant to, and important in the current context of debates about the African Rennaissance, which is recognised as a renewal of a vision for a changing nation.

Current debates over the 'new' ABET situate this study which seeks to present a perspective on women's emancipation. Through critical analyses of issues connected with gender and power over the past twenty years, it draws attention to adult education as being concerned with universalism, collectivism and communal relationships. The thesis attempts to establish parameters for evaluating the ABET policy and its implementation. The research therefore focuses upon ABET policies to delineate their relevance for women in the rural village of Moutse, in Mpumalanga. Through a case study based upon observations and interviews, an analytical foundation is laid for assessing the impact of adult education and training on female adult learners in this rural community. The experience of Moutse learners has shown that ABET has the potential to empower participants, particularly the female population, by encouraging a sense of ownership and control over their lives and over their communities.

The conclusion which emerges is that Adult Basic Education was indeed part of a radical social movement that emerged from and supported a socio-political struggle. However, the 'new' ABET is criticised for focusing on outcomes and skills at the expense of knowledge contained within cultural and traditional practices. The study therefore takes into account not only the cultural forces that shape collective and communal relationships, but also attends to the macro and micro economic and political influences that impact upon educational programmes. Inevitably, these forces and influences shape the public perceptions of the value placed upon ABET programmes.

It may be argued that current adult education policy might benefit from a greater awareness of the potentialities of a relevant and transformative curriculum. South African ABET policy-making could be enhanced by implementing its principles about learner participation, in recognition that those most affected by adult education have the most to contribute towards its development.