Problems with online learner registration flagged by Gauteng education department

Nearly 150 000 successful registrations were done on the first day.

By 3.15pm on Monday 16 April, the first day of online admissions for grades 1 and 8 learners, the Gauteng department of education has received 144 124 applications for 2019, Kempton Express reports.

The system is efficient in handling a large volume of applications. Within the first 10 minutes, the department received over 10 000 successful applications.

However, the department has identified a few challenges, said Steve Mabona, spokesperson for the department.

1. Parents entering home and work addresses incorrectly

2. Delays with sending waiting list numbers

3. Web operating systems

“With regards to the addresses, we appeal to parents to first select their municipality and then select the town. Thereafter, parents can select the township or suburb in which they live. When you follow this procedure, you should not have a problem with finding your street address.

“We also urge parents to make use of Google Chrome, as our site is linked with Google Maps, which makes it easier with regards to addresses. Google Chrome is faster and most compatible with the online application system.

“We are experiencing delays with regards to the waiting list numbers; however, our partner, Vodacom is assisting in this regard,” Mabona added.

“The online application system is the future. It provides for a fair and equitable opportunity for parents to apply at public schools. We are very humbled by the support and response from parents,” says MEC Panyaza Lesufi.

Applications for Grade 1 and 8 will close at midnight on May 28.

Parents must visit 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 decentralised application centres or a community library. The department will operate 57 admissions centres across the 15 education districts.

Alternatively, parents can contact the department at the following telephone or email address:

Call Centre on (011) 355 0000;

Toll free number 0800 000 789; or

Email: gdeinfo@gauteng.gov.za

Parents that have Grade R learners must apply online for Grade 1. For all other Grades (Grades 2-7 and Grade 9-11), parents should apply at the school.