Don't bite the hand that feeds you: South African education NGOs in a period of change

Abstract

This chapter outlines the history of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in the field of education in South Africa, in particular this sector's transition from the struggle against apartheid to the period of majority rule. It outlines the relationship of education NGOs with government, sees as a funder, and with other donors. It discusses tensions between service delivery and critical advocacy, and notes the increasing expansion of South African education NGOs in other parts of Africa. It also briefly considers what directions might be available to NGOs in addition to that of collaboration with government.