The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) is pleased with how Day 1 of the online admissions for Grades 1 and 8 went.
The GDE received and processed a total of 289 370 applications, made up of 136 854 applications for Grade 1 learners, and 152 516 applications for Grade 8s.
Some challenges were picked up during the process and have received the necessary attention. The challenges included the following:
• Some parents received WA4 reference numbers instead of WA1 numbers. This was because the feeder zone maps were slow to load, due to network connectivity issues, and parents opted for the within 30km radius option in order to complete their applications. This is receiving attention. Parents must not panic as the GDE is working on rectifying the glitch. No one will be disadvantaged, especially those staying closer to the schools.
• The system was logging users out due to inactivity – which was caused by the users being redirected to the Geographic Information System (GIS). The GDE has advised that this has been resolved.
• Parents couldn’t apply for twins and triplets, however this issue has also been resolved.
The GDE urged parents to make use of Google Chrome, as their site is linked to GIS Maps, which makes it easier with regard to recording addresses. Google Chrome is faster and most compatible with the online application system.
Panyaza Lesufi, the MEC for Education, explained that they have received complaints from parents who state that some schools are compelling them to fill in their administrative forms before accepting the required documents.
“Schools are not allowed to do this during the application period,” Lesufi said.
“The online application system is the future. It provides a fair and equitable opportunity for parents to apply at public schools. We are humbled by the overwhelming support and response from parents. Once more, we apologise unreservedly to parents who were frustrated by the slowness in the first few minutes after the system switch-on,” Lesufi added.
The admissions applications system for Grades 1 and 8 will close at midnight on 22 July. The placement period will run from 30 August to 30 September.
Parents must visit https://www.gdeadmissions.gov.za to apply.
Any parent who lacks access to the internet or requires face-to-face assistance should visit one of the GDE’s walk-in centres, any public ordinary school, or the identified community libraries for applications.
Alternatively, parents can contact the GDE telephonically on 011 355 0000 (Call Centre) or on the toll-free number 0800 000 789, or send an email to gdeinfo@gauteng.gov.za.
Parents of current Grade R learners must apply online for Grade 1. For Grades 2–7 and 9–11, parents should apply at the relevant school.
“We appeal to parents to apply online and apply on time. Once more, we are humbled by the overwhelmingly positive response from parents and promise to do everything possible to make the experience problem free.”
