Rural Transitions to Higher Education in South Africa: Decolonial Perspectives - Paperback

by Sue Timmis (Author), Thea de Wet (Author), Kibashini Naidoo (Author)

This unique and timely book focuses on research conducted into the experiences of students from rural backgrounds in South Africa: foregrounding decolonial perspectives on their negotiation of access and transitions to higher education.

This book highlights not only the challenges of coming from a rural background against the historical backdrop of apartheid and ongoing colonialism, but also shows the immense assets that students from rural areas bring into higher education. Through detailed narratives created by student co-researchers, the book charts early experiences in rural communities, negotiations of transitions to university and, in many cases, to urban life and students' subsequent journeys through higher education spaces and curricula.

The book will be of significant interest and value to those engaged in rurality research across diverse settings, those interested in the South African higher education context and higher education more widely. Its innovative, participatory methodology will be invaluable to researchers seeking to conduct collaborative research that draws on decolonising approaches.

Author Biography

Sue Timmis is Associate Professor in Education at the School of Education, University of Bristol, UK.

Thea de Wet is Professor of Anthropology and Senior Director of Academic Development and Support at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa.

Kibashini Naidoo is Director of the Centre for Academic Staff Development at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa.

Sheila Trahar is Professor Emerita of International Higher Education, University of Bristol, UK.

Lisa Lucas is Associate Professor in Higher Education at the School of Education, University of Bristol, UK.

Emmanuel Mfanafuthi Mgqwashu is Associate Professor and Director for Faculty Teaching and Support Directorate, Center for Teaching and Learning at North West University, South Africa.

Patricia Muhuro is Senior Consultant: Teaching and Learning at the University of Fort Hare, South Africa.

Gina Wisker is Professor of Higher Education and Contemporary Literature at the University of Bath, and Professor Emerita, University of Brighton, UK.