Parent appeals for help as late birth registration keeps child out of school
A parent in Ermelo says delays at Home Affairs have prevented her child from starting school, calling for urgent intervention.
ERMELO – A parent in Ermelo has expressed frustration with prolonged delays at the Department of Home Affairs, saying her child cannot start school due to a pending birth registration.
She claims she has been waiting since 2022 for an interview to finalise the late registration of her child’s birth, despite completing all required documents.
Repeated attempts to get feedback from the Ermelo office have been unsuccessful.
“The Department of Education requires a birth certificate for school admission, leaving my child unable to enrol,” she said, noting the emotional impact on her son.
She is also considering homeschooling, but feels it is not feasible as she is studying at university and her mother works long hours.
“He is constantly crying and wants to attend school like his peers,” the parent said. “I keep making up stories that I’m still looking for a school with space.”
Highvelder contacted Michael Ntuli, listed on the Home Affairs website as Ermelo’s acting office manager, but the email bounced. Enquiries to Bongani Ndimande of the district also received no response.
More details on this in Highvelder’s print edition.
