The chapter explores South African education, focusing on the transformative potential of critical pedagogy in curriculum reform and teacher education. It examines how critical pedagogy can empower learners with twenty-first-century skills, fostering critical consciousness and social justice within a rapidly changing global context. The chapter begins by exploring the historical and socio-political context of South Africa, emphasising the lasting impact of apartheid on the education system and the ongoing struggle for equity and inclusivity. It then delves into the evolution of curriculum reform, tracing the trajectory from the Curriculum Model for South Africa (CUMSA) to the current Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS). This exploration analyses the successes, challenges, and ongoing debates surrounding these reforms, highlighting the need to align education with the demands of the twenty-first-century while addressing social inequalities.