Just over half of all university students actually graduate - survey

Most South African students feel unprepared for tertiary education.

 

That's according to a new survey by the Professional Provident Society (PPS).

 

The 2017 Student Confidence Index (SCI) survey had been conducted among nearly 2500 students across South Africa.

 

The study shows the lack of preparedness for the transition from high school to university is costing South Africa thousands of skilled graduates.

 

PPS' technical marketing specialist, Motshabi Nomvethe says the expectations of tertiary education and what is taught in high school, has shown a great gap.

 

"A huge contributor is a lack of analytical skills. Over the past few years more and more students are moving away from core maths into maths literacy. Core maths taught people analytical skills - you force yourself to think critically. This equips you to think differently," she says.

Shocking statistics include 47.9% of students drop out before graduation.

 

"That means, almost one in every two people who registered for first year at university do not complete their degrees."

 

Nomvethe says it should become a societal issue where all stakeholders including corporate, government and civil societies contribute to solve the problem.