What was the Social historical context of education in south Africa prior to 1948?

Prior to 1948, South Africa's education system was heavily influenced by colonialism and segregation, with significant disparities between racial groups. Education for white students was relatively advanced and well-funded, while Black, Coloured, and Indian populations faced limited access to quality schooling, often receiving inferior resources and curricula. The Bantu Education Act of 1953, which institutionalized racial segregation in education, was rooted in the policies and attitudes that developed in this earlier period. This context laid the groundwork for the formalized apartheid system that would emerge after 1948.