Nope. Not at all. Following is the most succinct explanation of this topic I've ever read on SAF.
If the military wanted SA grads to stay in for 20, the commitment from the outset would be 20. But they simply cannot retain everyone for 20. That is not the manpower model. I used to feel the same way that you did on this topic
@RH3 but my thinking has evolved over time. In fact, now I think that a young, informed person who recognizes the amazing value proposition of an SA is smarter than the average bear.
And you state 'an exceptional officer' in your post. That is part of the issue right there - not all SA graduates turn out to be exceptional officers. Some are mediocre. Some are downright terrible. The military begins the weeding out process and that makes for a (hopefully) stronger military overall.