AMID simmering tensions over limited spaces in schools that led to demonstrations at the gates of Addington Primary School this week, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education has called on concerned parents to visit district or circuit offices for assistance.

The first bell of the 2026 academic year rang on Wednesday, January 14, but not all schoolgoing children were at their desks for the first lesson. According to the department and stranded parents, there are learners who were unable to register for school this year.

Mantombi Khumalo, who is among those affected, said that a recent move to eThekwini from Manguzi has left her scrambling to find a school for her child. “Everywhere I go, they are telling me that the schools are full. We are at a loss as to what to do and don’t want her to fall behind to the other kids. It’s already going to be a challenge with her starting a new school,” said Khumalo.

Department spokesperson Muzi Mahlambi said there was still a chance to find places in school. He urged District and Circuit Placement Committees,  parents and guardians who are seeking learner placement or first-time admission for their children in grades R, one and eight to approach their nearest district or circuit offices for assistance.

Also Read: Parents demand places at Addington Primary School

“This includes any other transfer relating to the other grades,” said Mahlambi. He said that there are committees in place at these centres who are mandated to support parents and guardians and to ensure that all learners are placed in appropriate schools where space is available.

“The Department confirms that District and Circuit Placement Committees are fully operational and continue to process placement and admission-related enquiries,” added Mahlambi.

The lack of places available in school this week led to March and March supporters picketing outside Addington Primary School. They argued that undocumented foreign learners were being prioritised for placement at school over South Africans. The allegation was addressed by Education MEC Sipho Hlomuka who said there are also undocumented SA learners in schools, who were not registered at birth.

“In relation to children of illegal foreigners, we would have to allow the relevant departments like Home Affairs to deal with that because that means that child is not record as being in the country and part of the education system,” said Hlomuka.

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