MBOMBELA- Learning and teaching is set to commence next Wednesday, however 7924 learners are still not placed in schools.
This was revealed during the 2025 Back To School Launch held on Monday at Phatfwa Secondary School in Embonisweni.
The process of learner’s admission for 2025 school year commenced in May 2024 and closed on 31 Aug 2024.
The Department of Education says it is currently working together with schools in addressing critical challenges with a view that every child of school going age needs will be adhered to.
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Priority is given to place learners in grade 1 and 8.
Below is a number of those still to be placed per district:
- Bohlabela District has 1 972 unplaced learners
- Ehlanzeni District has 743
- Gert Sibande District has 1862 and
- Nkangala District has 3347
In total, there are 7 924, grade R,1 and 8 learners still to be placed throughout the province.
According to the MEC, Cathy Dlamini, there is a high demand for English medium classes in the fast-growing towns caused an increase in the migration rate from rural to urban areas due to job opportunities.
“There is also an increase of applications from parents who are unable to afford fees in independent schools, therefore seeking admission to ordinary public schools, particularly in Former Model C schools.
Furthermore, some parents in some cases refuse placement in schools which have available space. Other parents do not apply on time for admission.”
Dlamini added that these factors place tremendous pressure on the department particularly in urban areas where schools are oversubscribed.
“In this regard, we request parents to work collaboratively with schools and the Department to ensure that the best interest of learners is always upheld.
She further called on parents to consider registering their children in schools within their residential or feeder area.
The curriculum offerings in all our schools is the same and of high quality. This will further mitigate several challenges including those related to transportation and attendance of school activities,” said Dlamini.
