Despite efforts since the end of apartheid, South Africa's education system remains deeply unequal, perpetuating poverty, particularly in marginalized communities. Many schools lack basic amenities, with over 4,000 still using illegal pit latrines and many more without libraries, laboratories, or electricity. This inadequate infrastructure creates unsafe and unhygienic environments, severely impacting students' educational experiences and outcomes​​.

Overcrowded classrooms, with some teacher-student ratios far exceeding the recommended 1:35, further hinder effective learning. More than 75% of nine-year-olds cannot read for meaning, with this figure rising to 91% in Limpopo and 85% in the Eastern Cape. Of 100 students who start school, only about 14 go on to university, indicating high dropout rates and limited access to higher education​.

The government's efforts, including the Minimum Norms and Standards for educational facilities established in 2013, have fallen short of their targets. Many schools still lack adequate sanitation, safe buildings, and essential learning resources, significantly affecting students' educational outcomes and future opportunities. Addressing these disparities requires significant investment in infrastructure and resources to break the cycle of poverty and provide equitable educational opportunities for all children​.The challenges facing South Africa's education system are deeply rooted in historical inequalities.

However, with a renewed focus on equitable resource distribution, improved infrastructure, and targeted support for marginalized communities, there is potential to create a more effective educational landscape for all students. By addressing these systemic issues head-on, South Africa can ensure that its education system not only meets the basic needs of all students but also empowers them to achieve their full potential​.