GDE safeguards teacher posts, targets illegal schools

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) provided updates on matters related to teacher posts in Gauteng public schools and efforts to close illegal schools in the province.

No reduction of teacher posts in Gauteng schools
The GDE confirmed that it would not reduce the Gauteng public school teacher posts during the 2025/26 and 2026/27 financial years.

It remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the stability of the schooling system by retaining all existing teacher posts. This approach aims to maintain optimal teacher-learner ratios and ensure that quality education is not compromised.

As such, no schools will see a decrease in teacher posts, and there are no affected subjects, teachers or phases. The GDE continues to prioritise classroom stability and equitable access to quality teaching across all quintiles.

Clamping down on illegal and unregistered schools
The GDE continues to act against illegal and unregistered schools that place learners’ safety, well-being and prospects at risk. These institutions often operate without proper accreditation, qualified teachers or adequate facilities, undermining the quality and credibility of learners’ education.

Over the past two financial years, the GDE identified and closed 71 illegal or unregistered schools. To prevent such schools from resurfacing under new names, the GDE works with law enforcement agencies, the security cluster and ward councillors.

Schools that continue to operate after being issued closure notices face criminal prosecution under the South African Schools Act, which prohibits the establishment or maintenance of any unregistered school.

Departmental officials also periodically do monitoring visits to previously affected areas to ensure compliance. The GDE continues to collaborate with municipalities, law enforcement and communities to ensure the illegal schools are identified and shut down.

In areas where illegal schools are prevalent, the GDE holds regular stakeholder engagements and joint operations. Community structures have been established to serve as the department’s eyes and ears on the ground.

The GDE established dedicated hotline numbers and email contacts for parents and community members to verify the registration status of any school or report suspicious institutions.

Call 060 891 0310/ 0312/ 0334 or 083 289 3608 to verify or report illegal schools.

Email: [email protected] or [email protected]

“Through these comprehensive efforts, the GDE reaffirms its commitment to protecting learners from exploitation and ensuring that every child in Gauteng receives a safe, recognised and quality education,” said Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane.

Contact GDE spokesperson Steve Mabona on 072 574 3860 or the Gauteng Education MEC spokesperson, Xolani Mkhwemte, on 084 513 9285 for more information.

For more updates on GDE news, follow:
• Facebook: The Gauteng Department of Education;
• X: @EducationGP1;
• Instagram: @gautengdepartmentofeducation.