Visible Rewards as an Entrenchment of Neoliberal Schooling in South Africa: An Inclusive Education View
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25159/2663-6549/15845Keywords:
inclusive education, neoliberalism, South African educationAbstract
The worldwide impact of neoliberalism on education has fostered a market-oriented outlook that shapes the functioning of contemporary schools. Schooling is characterised by high levels of competitiveness and academic success is linked to a meritocratic system. Like other postcolonial countries, South Africa is grappling with the implementation of inclusive education within a neoliberal society. While inclusive education is rooted in social justice, collaboration, supportive learning communities, and participation for all, there exists a huge disparity between the neoliberal environment in which our schools find themselves and the ideals to which we aspire in realising inclusive education. Based on insights gleaned from my doctoral study, I argue that reducing the mechanisms that support academic competition can encourage collaboration and cooperation, thereby creating environments that facilitate the implementation of inclusive education at schools. The practice of rewarding learners visibly and publicly for academic achievement, which includes elaborate ceremonies and symbolic representations of academic achievement namely badges, trophies, certificates, and honour board listings do not align with inclusive practices. The manner in which we currently reward and award learners entrenches neoliberal values, and needs revisiting.
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Accepted 2024-08-27
Published 2026-02-18
