THE KZN Department of Education has confirmed making the crucial payments needed to keep the doors of learning open at 76 special schools across the province.

This follows mounting pressure to pay the outstanding amounts, and threats of closure of the learning centres from parents and the South African National Association for Special School Education (Sanase) amid a funding crisis brought on by the delayed payments from Quarter II.

Speaking on behalf of the department, Muzi Mahlambi said they were aware of delays that occur in the disbursement process.  He said, “We are working diligently to ensure timely and consistent payment to all qualifying special schools. We further encourage school management teams in all 76 special schools in the province to engage with their district offices should there be any concerns regarding their funding allocations.”

Mahlambi confirmed that the department has successfully made payment of Norms and Standards to special schools for Quarter II. These payments are intended to cover operational costs, staff remuneration, learning support materials, and other essential services that contribute to a safe and supportive learning environment.

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Among the schools affected in Durban is Ningizimu Special School, Khulangolwazi Special School and Truro Prevocational School in Chatsworth which is already closed, according to DA spokesperson on education Sakhile Mngadi.

Mngadi, who wrote to the Acting Education Portfolio Committee chairperson, Hlengiwe Mavimbela MPL, demanding answers on the collapse of special needs schools across the province, said both public and private special schools dependent on State subsidies had been affected by the department’s funding crisis.

“These schools are lifelines for children with disabilities. Now, they are being systematically abandoned,” said Mngadi. “This is not an administrative hiccup. It is a province-wide failure caused by years of incompetence and indifference. Vulnerable learners are being left without food, care, transport, or education – a gross violation of their constitutional rights.”

In his letter, he demanded that DoE HOD, Nkosinathi Ngcobo, appear before the portfolio committee to explain. “We want to know, what emergency steps are being taken and who will be held accountable. If the HOD cannot protect the rights of KZN’s most vulnerable learners, he must go. Children with disabilities deserve dignity. Their parents deserve justice. These funding failures are chronic and well-documented. The DA will not allow this disgrace to be brushed aside,” said Mngadi.

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