Gauteng Education department affirms non-discriminatory school admissions

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) stated that it remains committed to a safe and enabling learning environment for all.

This statement followed a campaign by Operation Dudula (OD) in Soweto on September 22, which called for schools to prioritise SA learners over foreign nationals.

ALSO READ: Gauteng Education terminates partnership after allegations of sexual assault

The GDE has engaged with OD and assured them that the Gauteng School Admissions Regulations govern public school admissions. Learners are admitted based on set criteria, in this order of priority:

• Home address within the school’s feeder zone;
• Siblings already enrolled at the school;
• Work address within the feeder zone;
• Home address within a 30km radius;
• Home address beyond a 30km radius.
All placements are subject to school capacity.

The department assured communities that citizenship is not a factor in allocating school spaces. It upholds every child’s right to education and will ensure admissions follow the law and ethical governance.

ALSO READ: Gauteng Education invests R207m to solve learner placement crisis

This information follows the recent safe return of learners to Alra Park Primary School on September 8, after community protests over classroom infrastructure safety.

The department is also addressing other access to special schools, infrastructure projects and providing temporary learning and ablution facilities.