South Africa’s crackdown on illegal immigration is now raising serious concerns in Gauteng schools.
Gauteng MEC for Sports, Arts and Culture Lebogang Maile told the provincial legislature that some undocumented children are attending school without their parents. He said this follows the movement of foreign nationals out of South Africa amid fears linked to deportation and anti-illegal immigration pressure.
Maile made the remarks during his department’s budget vote. He said he had already requested a list of undocumented learners in schools.
“I have already asked for a list of all the undocumented children in our schools at the instruction of the courts that we must accept them,” Maile said.
He said the province is checking their ages, the schools they attend and what it may cost to support their education.
Schools Under Pressure
The issue comes as Gauteng’s education system already faces growing pressure.
Maile said rapid in-migration, urbanisation, overcrowding, infrastructure backlogs and growing learner demand are affecting schools, especially in townships, informal settlements and inner-city areas.
Gauteng’s education budget has increased from R68 billion in 2025/26 to R70.9 billion for 2026/27. Maile said the increase is meant to support education delivery while keeping a focus on access, quality and equity.
The department is also investing R2 million in 160 computers for libraries and R5.1 million in reading programmes aimed at improving literacy across Gauteng communities.
Security Concerns Ahead of Shutdown
The concerns around learners come as government prepares for possible unrest linked to a planned 30 June 2026 shutdown.
Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia said R600 million will be redirected to secure the country ahead of the protest threat. The planned shutdown is linked to anti-illegal immigration movement March and March, which has called for undocumented foreign nationals to leave the country by its deadline.
Defence Minister Angie Motshekga said the army would be ready to support police if needed.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi said the province supports peaceful protest, but warned that violence or criminality will not be tolerated.
He said the provincial government is engaging stakeholders and plans to convene a broader meeting to deal with long-term immigration-related concerns.
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