Are cramped classrooms squashing big dreams?

The reality for many schools in South Africa is bleak and often dire. Many students are forced to learn in makeshift classrooms under trees or in mud rondavels. South Africa’s most disadvantaged students attend schools that are severely under-maintained and underresourced. This stands in stark contrast to research highlighting the critical role that a proper learning environment plays in education.

The physical environment of a classroom can significantly impact a child’s ability to learn. While learning is often viewed as a purely cognitive process, research reveals that a child’s physical surroundings play a crucial role. Key factors like proper lighting, ventilation and temperature control are essential for creating a comfortable and focused learning space.

Jean-Paul Heyns, spokesperson for Kwikspace, emphasises: “This is especially important in rural areas where resources are limited. In South Africa, inadequate infrastructure in schools contributes to a hostile learning environment, deterring students from attending and hampering their ability to concentrate.”

Rural schools grapple with unique challenges:

• Overcrowding – Limited space creates a stressful environment.
• Poor infrastructure – Dilapidated buildings, inadequate lighting and lack of proper ventilation hinder learning.
• Resource scarcity – Textbooks, science equipment and technology are scarce.
• Uninspiring décor – Bland classrooms fail to spark curiosity.

These issues extend beyond learning. Poor sanitation facilities, leaky roofs and limited accessibility create health and safety concerns.

The impact of these challenges is a cycle of limited learning opportunities for rural students. They often miss out on essential resources such as science labs, libraries and computer labs, which are crucial for their academic and personal development. Moreover, the lack of supportive teachers, due to limited resources and low morale, further hampers their educational experience.

However, there is hope. Heyns explains that community involvement, partnerships with local businesses and non-governmental organisations, and creative solutions like low-cost technology, can bridge the resource gap. In fact, Kwikspace, a leader in modular building solutions in sub-Saharan Africa, is contributing to this positive change. Its prefabricated buildings allow for the rapid construction of customised classrooms, toilets and offices, addressing urgent needs in rural areas.

“At Kwikspace, we believe every child deserves a conducive learning environment, regardless of their geographical location. Our modular buildings are designed to provide safe, comfortable and fully functional spaces that can be quickly deployed to meet urgent educational needs,” says Heyns.

Investing in rural classrooms is not just about improving physical structures; it’s about building a brighter future for all South Africa’s children. By implementing creative solutions, such as using recycled materials for learning aids and collaborating with online resources, rural schools can overcome their resource limitations.

A success story

VRT Pitt Primary School Swellendam is a shining example of how improved infrastructure can positively impact education. Kwikspace delivered two 7mx7m classrooms to this school, which were built and delivered in six weeks.

Deputy principal Marianna Stuart shared their experience: “Having the extra classrooms has been a game-changer for our grade Rs. We now have 120 grade Rs who are better behaved, more engaged and performing better academically. The positive energy is palpable. Attendance has improved and parents are more engaged. They’ve seen the new facilities and are excited about the opportunities for their children.”

The impact of these changes has been significant, with a noticeable increase in interest in enrolments for the next year. The improved facilities have created a ripple effect, benefiting not just the students but the entire school community.

The sad truth is that inadequate infrastructure in South African schools contributes to a hostile learning environment, deterring students from attending and hampering their ability to concentrate. According to a 2020 global survey, South Africa ranked second-last in the world for the quality of education, positioned 75th out of 76 countries. Although there was some improvement in 2022, with South Africa ranking 50th out of 63 countries for the education and training sub-factor, this disparity underscores the insufficient support provided by the current education infrastructure.

Heyns concludes, “Addressing the infrastructure challenges in South African schools is crucial for providing quality education. With innovative solutions and concerted efforts from the government, communities and organisations like Kwikspace, it is possible to create a conducive learning environment that supports the academic and personal growth of all students.”