There are many reasons why students drop out of university in South Africa, but there are three common reasons. Poor career choice decisions and lack of institutional support and funding.
The story of students dropping out of university is a common story recorded by various higher education institutions. Although the reasons common to each university's research on this issue vary, some universities cite three reasons as one of the most common.
First, some students may not be able to make the right choice about which career to pursue. It is not uncommon for students to enroll in a particular course but change their mind during their studies. As a result, some students drop out to choose a different course in the next semester, or change subjects or fields of study to meet their new goals.
The second and third reasons are intertwined. The lack of support students receive from higher education institutions has also been cited as a contributing factor. This can be done in terms of assistance in understanding learning materials, support structures, or the lack thereof. Lack of support may also be in terms of financial aid to further education. Many students drop out of university due to a lack of financial support to continue their studies.
Sabelo Makhubo
s.makhubo@politicalanalysis.co.za