What has 30 years of education reform in South Africa actually produced?
For more than three decades, James Urdang has worked at the intersection
of education, civil society, and social change. As the founder of
Education Africa, his work has been shaped by a clear belief that
education remains one of the most powerful tools for breaking the cycle
of poverty.

What makes his perspective especially valuable is not only what he has
built, but what he has witnessed over time. From the early years of
democratic transformation to the realities facing schools today, his
journey offers a rare long view of how the system has evolved. This
conversation with Phumi Mashigo asks a difficult but necessary question.
After three decades of effort, investment, and ambition, what progress
can we truly see, and what still remains unfinished?

Democracy vs Reality: Why South Africans Are Losing Faith in Voting

Democracy Unplugged brings together thought leaders, activists and influencers to untangle the threads of democratic principles, dissect current challenges, and envision what our future could look like. Join the conversation as our panels delve into current affairs, political dynamics and social issues.