The role of specialised schools in poverty alleviation and economic development : a case study of Gauteng province

Abstract

Poverty and unemployment remain significant socio-economic challenges in South Africa, particularly among the youth. In response, the Gauteng Department of Education introduced schools of specialisation (SOS) to provide learners with sector-specific skills aligned to labour market demands. This study explores the potential of the SOS to alleviate poverty and unemployment by accelerating economic growth in Gauteng. A qualitative research approach was employed to gain in-depth insights into the implementation and perceived impact of SOS. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, including school principals, teachers, and district officials. In addition, learners were observed during practical activities to gain contextual understanding of how skills are taught and applied. This study employed a single case study design to facilitate an in-depth understanding of participants’ experiences, and purposive sampling was used to select participants. Thematic analysis was conducted to analyse the data. Ethical approval was obtained from the College of Education Research Ethics Review Committee at the University of South Africa, and permission to collect data from schools was granted by the Gauteng Department of Education. The findings indicate that SOS contribute to skills development, improved learner employability, and stronger links between education and industry, all of which are critical for poverty reduction and economic participation. However, the study also identified challenges, including resource constraints, limited industry partnerships, and inconsistencies in programme implementation, which hinder the full realisation of the objectives of the SOS. The study concludes that while SOSs hold significant potential as a strategy for socio-economic development in Gauteng, their success depends on effective implementation, adequate resourcing, and sustained collaboration among stakeholders. The study recommended strengthening industry partnerships and policy support to enhance the impact of SOS and economic growth.