Explores the concept of decentralization within South Africa. Examines the policy impact of participation and democratization in relation to the powers and functions of school governing bodies. Concludes by considering the gap between rhetoric and practice in relation to attempts to entrench democracy and participation at the school level. (CAJ)

Examines the discourses of educational decentralization in present educational policy development (1994-1997) in South Africa with reference to the South African Schools Act (SASA). Explores the different understandings of educational decentralization; the notions of educational decentralization embedded in the SASA; and a manifestation of…