UNPACKING SYSTEMIC BARRIERS IN COMMERCE EDUCATION: A CHAT-INFORMED STUDY OF COMMERCIAL CURRICULUM DELIVERY IN CAPRICORN SOUTH DISTRICT

Abstract

This study aimed to map the systemic barriers undermining commercial subjects in Capricorn South District by examining how support deficits, staffing constraints, motivational challenges, and resource gaps interact. employing a qualitative, interpretive design grounded in cultural activity theory, we interviewed ten commercial departmental heads and analyzed policy memos, timetables, staffing records, and resource inventories. four interlocking contradictions STEM-biased policies, chronic teacher shortages, insecure leadership roles, and inadequate instructional resources emerged. these findings underscore the need for coordinated interventions in policy realignment, permanent staffing structures, targeted professional development, resource modernisation, and strengthened industry-community partnerships to revitalise commerce education as conduit for economic participation.