Book banning in South Africa has a complex history, rooted in the censorship laws of the apartheid era but persisting in various forms even today. During apartheid, books were banned under the Publications Act and the Suppression of Communism Act, targeting literature that challenged the regime’s racial and ideological supremacy. This period saw over 26,000 works, including significant texts by prominent authors like Steve Biko and André Brink, removed from public access. University libraries, like those at the University of Cape Town, were required to label and restrict these books. Today, previously banned books are displayed as important historical artifacts, reflecting the cultural suppression that South Africa endured and the significance of intellectual freedom in contemporary society.
Although apartheid-era laws were repealed in 1990, book banning still arises in South Africa, though in less extreme forms. For example, From the River to the Sea, a children’s coloring book about Palestine, was removed from Exclusive Books’ shelves after it drew criticism from pro-Israel groups, who claimed it promoted a biased narrative. This incident sparked debate over censorship and free speech in modern South Africa, with many arguing that limiting access to such books undermines the democratic value of open discourse.
Additionally, recent exhibitions, such as the University of Pretoria’s “Banned Books Exhibition,” highlight not only historical censorship but also caution against current trends, particularly around politically or socially sensitive topics. This event emphasized the significance of previously banned South African literature, showing how censorship has shaped—and continues to influence—public discourse.
For more information, the University of Pretoria’s and UCT’s exhibitions provide valuable insights into South Africa’s censorship history and the continued relevance of protecting access to controversial literature.
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What are Banned Books?
Books were being banned in countries across the world long before the first public libraries appeared in parts of America. Typically, books were banned on moral, religious, or political grounds. They were believed to be obscene or too controversial to be read by society. Although we usually think of classics like George Orwell’s 1984 when referring to books that were banned, there are still many books being challenged and censored every year. Books that explore race, sexuality, and new concepts and ideas are still often prohibited by certain communities, although they can easily be purchased in most bookstores. Even Pulitzer Prize winning books like Art Spiegelman’s Maus, world-wide bestsellers like Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale, and household staples like Harry Potter have recently been challenged and restricted. The good news is that we have an extensive list of banned books that are available to read today. Explore our list of the top banned & challenged books in libraries and schools at Barnes & Noble.
Top Banned & Challenged Books You Should Probably Read Immediately:
- Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
- They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera
- The Giver by Lois Lowry
- The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
- The Lord of the Flies by William Golding
- To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
- Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
- The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls
- 1984 by George Orwell
- Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
- Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
- How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents by Julia Alvarez
- New Kid by Jerry Craft
- Animal Farm by George Orwell
- The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
For a comprehensive list of banned books throughout the world , click here : List of Banned books in the world
Related Resources
Student Loans in South Africa: How to Apply and What to Expect
For many young South Africans, accessing higher education is a dream that often comes with a financial challenge. Fortunately, several student loan optionsstrong> are available in South Africa to help fund university, college, or TVET studies. Whether you’re looking for a government loan like NSFAS or a private student loan from a bank, understanding the process is essential for success.
What Are Student Loans?
Student loans are a form of financial aid provided to eligible students to help cover tuition fees, books, accommodation, and other study-related expenses. In South Africa, these loans can come from government institutions like NSFAS or private banks such as Nedbank, Standard Bank, FNB, and Absa. Most loans offer repayment flexibility and low-interest options until you graduate.
Types of Student Loans in South Africa
- NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme): A government-funded loan/grant program for students from low-income households. Covers tuition, housing, transport, and meals.
- Bank Student Loans: Offered by most major banks. These are credit-based and require a guardian or parent as a co-signer.
- Private Loan Providers: Companies like Fundi offer educational loans covering various costs such as school fees, gadgets, and textbooks.
Requirements to Qualify for a Student Loan
Each provider has its own criteria, but most South African student loans require the following:
- Proof of South African citizenship or permanent residency
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a recognised tertiary institution
- Parent or guardian with a stable income to co-sign (for private loans)
- Completed application form with supporting documents (ID, proof of income, academic records)
How to Apply for a Student Loan
To apply for a student loan in South Africa, follow these steps:
- Identify your loan provider: Choose between NSFAS, a bank, or a private lender.
- Gather necessary documents: ID copies, academic transcripts, acceptance letters, and income statements.
- Complete the application form online or at a branch.
- Await approval: Some banks offer instant decisions, while NSFAS can take a few weeks.
- Receive disbursement: Funds are typically paid directly to the institution or your account, depending on the lender.
Loan Amounts and Repayment
The loan amount you can receive depends on your chosen lender and financial need:
- NSFAS: Covers full tuition, residence, books, and a personal allowance. The loan becomes a bursary if you pass all your courses.
- Banks: Can provide up to R120,000 or more annually, depending on tuition costs and credit history.
Repayment usually starts after graduation or once you start earning an income. Bank loans may require interest-only payments during your studies. NSFAS repayment only begins when you earn above a specific income threshold.
FAQs on Student Loans in South Africa
1. Can I apply for a student loan without a parent or guardian?
For government loans like NSFAS, yes. But most banks require a financially responsible co-signer, especially for students without an income.
2. Is NSFAS a loan or a bursary?
NSFAS starts as a loan, but it converts to a bursary if you meet academic performance requirements. This means you may not have to pay it back.
3. What is the interest rate on student loans?
Private banks offer competitive rates between 5% and 12%, depending on the applicant's credit profile. NSFAS charges a much lower interest rate, usually linked to inflation.
4. What happens if I fail my courses?
If you’re funded by NSFAS and fail, your loan won’t convert into a bursary, and you’ll need to repay the full amount. Banks may continue charging interest, and your co-signer may be held liable.
5. Can I use a student loan to pay for accommodation and laptops?
Yes. Both NSFAS and many bank student loans cover costs beyond tuition, including housing, meals, textbooks, and electronic devices like laptops or tablets.
Final Thoughts
Student loans in South Africa offer a much-needed financial lifeline to thousands of students every year. Whether you're applying through **NSFAS** or a private bank, ensure you understand the **terms, interest rates, and repayment conditions** before signing any agreement. Make informed decisions today to secure your academic and financial future tomorrow.