Mentoring programs help South African pupils adapt to university demands
A recent study on the AccessEd Scholars Programme in Gauteng, South Africa, reveals that mentorship by postgraduate students helps high school pupils develop confidence and academic skills necessary for university. The program supports learners from underserved communities by exposing them early to research, writing, and critical thinking, facilitating a smoother transition to higher education.
Brève Publié le (Africa/Lagos, UTC+1)
A recent study conducted in Gauteng province, South Africa, shows that mentorship programs like AccessEd Scholars significantly improve high school pupils’ readiness for university. The program, which pairs underserved secondary school learners with postgraduate university students as tutors and near-peer mentors, helps pupils develop confidence and academic skills such as research, critical engagement, and academic writing.
The study analyzed self-evaluations, tutor feedback, teacher observations, and pupil assignments across four urban secondary schools. Findings indicate that mentored pupils become more active learners and practice university-style academic skills before entering higher education.
Researchers emphasize that preparing learners for university should begin during secondary school, recommending earlier and sustained exposure to research-based learning and analytical writing to smooth the transition from school to university.