Browsing by Author "Shezi, Sphelele"

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    Assessing the challenges and opportunities of free higher education in a rural based university
    (University of Zululand, 2024) Shezi, Sphelele; Xaba, F. G.
    Education has been heralded as a transformative tool essential for both individual and national development. Since 1994, following South Africa's democratic transition, the government and universities have sought to achieve equity in higher education amidst limited public finances, necessitating difficult decisions. This study reports on the challenges of free education at the rural based university, focusing on its socioeconomic, academic, and psychological impacts on students. This research was crucial in highlighting areas for enhancement and support mechanisms within higher education. Despite free education’s aim to provide equitable access, significant gaps remain, particularly regarding financial stability, academic support, and living conditions. The study's primary objectives were to evaluate the extent to which Free Education meets its goals and to identify areas requiring improvement. The researcher conducted semi-structured interviews using a qualitative approach with 16 students who were receiving financial aid through NSFAS or other support mechanisms. Thematic analysis of the data revealed several key findings: students faced challenges in covering essential expenses, there was a notable mismatch between students' interests and their academic programmes, academic stressors were prevalent, and poor living conditions in campus residences adversely affected students' well-being. The findings suggest that while Free Education succeeded in increasing access to higher education, significant challenges persist. Recommendations include enhancing financial aid coverage, improving career guidance, addressing academic stressors, and upgrading campus living conditions to better support students' overall success.