Education is essential for children to develop to their full potential. It is considered so important that human rights treaties prescribe that governments must provide free compulsory primary education for children. To measure whether children’s right to education is being realised, we need to look at indicators that provide information on availability of education, access to education, quality of education and the outcomes of education.

Number and proportion of children attending an educational institution

11.3 million children in South Africa are of school-going age. Reported attendance rates are high but drop off as children get older. Around 350,000 children of school-going age do not attend school.

Gender Parity Index in schooling

The Gender Parity Index (GPI) reflects females’ level of access to education compared to that of males. This is calculated for each school phase. A GPI of less than 1 indicates that there are fewer females than males in the formal education system in proportion to the appropriate school-age population. A GPI of more than 1 means that there are proportionately more girls than boys attending school. A score of 1 reflects equal enrolment rates for boys and girls.

The number and proportion of children living far from the nearest school

School attendance rates are very high, despite the fact that many children have to travel long distances to get to school.

Number and proportion of schools with access to water on or near site

This indicator shows the number and proportion of schools with access to water on or near site.

Number and proportion of schools with adequate sanitation facilities

This indicator reflects the number and proportion of schools with adequate sanitation facilities.