Education department ensures municipal funding for Gauteng public schools
Schools and their governing bodies are now responsible for settling municipal bills on time to avoid service disruptions.
The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has confirmed that it has allocated the necessary funds to all public schools for the payment of their municipal accounts.
The transfers were made to the accounts of all identified schools in June. Once the funds are received, it becomes the responsibility of each school and its School Governing Body (SGB) to ensure that municipal bills are paid on time to avoid disruptions to water and electricity services.
The Department emphasised that, in line with legislation, schools granted Section 21 functions are responsible for managing their own finances. This includes paying for essential municipal services such as electricity and water.
Alongside the funding, the Department continues to offer oversight and support. In April, it settled several outstanding accounts on behalf of schools. It also provides financial management training to schools and SGBs to ensure compliance with all financial procedures.
The Department reiterated its commitment to creating and maintaining a conducive learning and teaching environment. It will continue working closely with school leadership to promote sound financial governance and uninterrupted access to basic services.
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane assured that no public school in the province is, or will be, disconnected from water or electricity.
“Schools must work hand in hand with the GDE to ensure that their municipal accounts remain up to date at all times and that they follow the correct procedures,” said Chiloane.
He also called on parents, communities and stakeholders to support schools and their SGBs in carrying out their duties responsibly and in the best interests of learners, educators and school-based staff.
