GDE transfers funds to Gauteng schools for municipal account payments
The Gauteng Department of Education has transferred funds to schools to pay their water and electricity bills. Schools and their governing bodies are now responsible for settling municipal accounts on time.
The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) confirmed it had transferred funds to all schools to pay their respective municipal billing accounts.
The GDE transferred these funds to the accounts of all identified schools in June. After transfer, the schools and their respective school governing bodies (SGB) assume responsibility for ensuring their municipal accounts are settled and paid on time to avoid water and power cuts.
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane said the department reiterates that, in line with legislation, schools, specifically those granted Section 21 functions, are entrusted with managing their own finances.
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These schools are responsible for a range of functions, including paying for municipal services.
“The department provides oversight and support to these schools, having previously settled outstanding accounts on behalf of schools in April.
“We also provide financial management training to schools and SGBs to convey and teach the importance of compliance with all relevant financial processes,” said Chiloane.
He added that the department was dedicated to fostering a supportive learning and teaching environment in all schools. They continue to collaborate with school leadership structures to ensure strong financial governance and maintain consistent access to basic services.
“No public school in Gauteng is currently, or will ever be, disconnected from water and electricity services now and in the near future.
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“Schools must work with the GDE to continue achieving this by ensuring their municipal accounts are up to date at all times and that they comply with all necessary procedures,” said Chiloane.
Chiloane urges parents, communities, and stakeholders to support schools and their SGBs in fulfilling their responsibilities for the benefit of all learners, teachers, and school staff.
