Learner Participation in School Governance: The Views of Learner Governors in South African Schools

Abstract

This article explores the view of learner governors in school management in South Africa. The South African Schools Act No. 84 of 1996 stipulates that all public secondary schools in South Africa must have democratically elected Representative Councils of Learners (RCL). This Act was intended to foster collective decision-making in schools. Apart from a literature review on learner management, empirical study investigation based on quantitative research paradigm was used to collect data from learner governors on their role in school management. The findings highlighted the important functions of learner governors in schools and it is concluded by the submission that it is essential for schools to build the necessary frameworks and communication avenues for developing learner governors. DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2014.v5n20p1807