Decolonization of education: exploring a new praxis for sustainable development

Abstract

The study investigated the causes of poor quality learning experienced by undergraduate students in a South African university considering the implication of foreign practices on the learning abilities of the students. Survey research design was employed to carry out the study. The population of the study comprised undergraduate students and academic staff members of the selected institution. 400 undergraduate students and 8 academic staff members were randomly selected as sample for the study. Data analysis indicated that language of Instruction, high school education background of students, education policies and curriculum of the institution contribute to the poor academic performance of the sampled students. Based on the findings, the study recommends the decolonization and restructuring of the type of education being offered to students in African universities and partnership between universities and corporate establishments to enhance productivity and innovation, as well as meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Africa.