Options and Challenges of Sustaining Higher Education Through Financial Resource Allocation in South Africa

Abstract

This chapter used FeesMustFall movement, which engulfed South African universities in 2015 and 2016, to reflect on the funding options and challenges for sustaining South African higher education sector through equitable allocation of financial resources. The chapter argues that equitable allocation of financial and human resources is key towards sustainable the higher education. However, transforming and decolonising knowledge and the entire education system as advocated by FMF movement is also equally fundamental. The chapter explores various funding options and their potential implications for sustaining higher education in South Africa. The chapter employed qualitative research approach to ground the funding options and challenges faced by higher education, especially historically disadvantaged universities in South Africa. Since the chapter is not empirical, secondary data inclusive of books, book chapters, accredited articles, reports, and governments policy documents were utilised.