Thousands of pupils still without school placement as 2026 academic year begins in Gauteng
Mapaballo Borotho
- The Gauteng Department of Education says it is negotiating with schools to increase capacity as thousands of learners remain unplaced for 2026.
- About 3 000 Grade 1 and 8 pupils are still waiting for placement, prompting renewed protests by parents in Sandton.
- The department has urged patience, noting a 10-day grace period while officials work to place all learners.
The Gauteng Department of Education has assured parents that it is in ongoing discussions with schools to increase capacity for the 2026 academic year.
This comes as more than 100 parents once again gathered outside the Morningside district offices in Sandton, hoping their children will be placed in schools.
The department says approximately 3 000 Grade 1 and Grade 8 learners across the province are still without placements.
It remains unclear whether schools will agree to the department’s request to expand capacity, or when the placement process will be finalised.
The situation has unfolded as thousands of learners returned to classrooms on Wednesday to begin the 2026 school year.
Frustration has not only been expressed by parents of Grade 1 and 8 pupils, but also by those with children in inner grades who are still awaiting placement.
The department has appealed for patience, stating that it is working to ensure all unplaced learners are accommodated.
Spokesperson Steve Mabona says the department has a 10-day grace period, which may result in some learners only starting school later next week, adding that officials are working around the clock to assist affected parents.
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