By Palesa Mofoti and Khumo Makame
Sol Plaatjie University launched a Centre For The Advancement of Rural and Inclusive Education Research (CARIER), a huge step for education in the Northern Cape.
CARIER was inaugurated on 17 September 2025, in the presence of Acting Vice Chancellor and Principal of the University, Debra Meyer, faculty leaders of the University, and a representative of the Northern Cape Department of Education (NCDoE), Sandile Beuzana.
CARIER will focus on improving education in rural and under-resourced areas. In practical terms, researchers and students will work directly with schools and communities to find solutions to everyday challenges. For example, they will study how teaching methods, curriculum designs and local languages can be better used to help rural learners succeed. They will also test new approaches in real classrooms, support teachers with training and resources, and collect data that can influence education policies at the Provincial and national levels.
Dr Xolani Mavela, an isiXhosa Lecturer at the Sol Plaatjie University, who was the Program Director, delivered an inspiring message, “This launch brings together innovation and light. Welcome to the future where no child is left behind. The launch of this Centre is more than just an institutional milestone. It is a bold declaration that rural schools and teachers matter.”
Giving the address was Professor Boitumelo Diale, describing the launch as a historic moment. “This is not just a research program- we are changing the mindsets. Quality education is not only reserved for the few. But for every child, every corner. This centre positions communities as partners and co-creators.”
The Northern Cape is rich in indigenous knowledge systems that have supported communities for generations. The San and Khoi and other indigenous groups hold wisdom that can transform and formal institutions overlook.
Amongst the speakers was Prof. Anthony Brown, School of Interdisciplinary Research and Graduate. “The Centre must champion a different vision, inclusive education as the preparation for inclusive societies. It cannot be another academic space producing research that gathers dust.”
Speaking on behalf of NCDoE, Beuzana said: “CARIER is not just about research, it is about building a South Africa where every child counts. This center is also in line with the NDP.” He pledged the Department’s support to the University.
“The specific goal of rural education must breach the gap between rural and urban schooling, while taking the unique cultures and resilience of rural communities into consideration,” said Prof Meyer.
All parties are committed to changing how education works for children in rural and underserved areas.
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