South Africa: Education, Weather & Stay in South Africa
Introduction
The Republic of South Africa is a country located at the southern most tip of the continent of Africa. The countries of Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Swaziland border South Africa. The country has a long coastline of more than 2500 kilometers.
The country is often called ‘The Rainbow Nation’ – a term that aptly describes the country’s rich multicultural diversity. Political environment in the country is also stable as it is one of the few countries in Africa that have never witnessed a military coup.
Elections have been held regularly over the last century. South Africa’s economy is the largest and most well developed in the African continent.
The country will be hosting the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Climatic Conditions in South Africa
Climatic conditions in South Africa differ widely from one region to another. While the desert of Kalahari near Namibia experiences extreme climatic conditions, the areas bordering Mozambique experience sub tropical climate. The deep interiors witness hottest temperatures. The Western coast of the country has moderate climate. Precipitation occurs mainly during the months of summer. However, the western coast witnesses rains during the winter season. Mid-winter temperatures in Sutherland, said to be the coldest place in South Africa, can go as low as –15 degree Celsius.
Education Scenario in South Africa
One of the main characteristics of the education system of South Africa is its great diversity. Universities across the country have varied levels of quality, financial resources and size. The educational landscape in the country is widely diversified. Many of the elite institutions are under state control with the government laying special emphasis on developing a privately held higher education sector. The 21 public universities, 15 technikons and many other colleges located across the country have more than a million students undertaking various courses. The universities and technikons are autonomous in nature and they are not obliged to report to the government. These universities and technikons report to their own councils. Many of the universities provide opportunities for cutting edge research in certain disciplines. As the anti-apartheid legacy lingers on in the country, the government is seriously working towards wiping off the imbalances in higher education.
Staying options in South Africa
Students coming for higher education in South Africa have a wide number of options available for accommodation. There are private rented student accommodations available throughout the country. Landlords and letting agents also advertise regularly in newspapers for accommodations. There are student houses, student apartments and student flats available at affordable rates. International flat-sharing agencies also provide information on available accommodation and discussing them can be prudent. Accommodation charges are different in different places and depend greatly on the place one is going to avail.
