The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) acknowledges the delays in the release of school subsidies, which were expected to be deposited into the respective school accounts by May 15.

Importantly, GDE commits to ensuring that disbursements of the funds begin in June.

Gauteng Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation MEC, Lebogang Maile, said, “Firstly, we would like to express our apologies to all schools and stakeholders of Gauteng for the delays in the release of funds.

“Schools are entitled to as per paragraph 12A of the National Norms and Standards for School Funding (NNSSF). We want to assure the public and all stakeholders that the funds are there and schools will start accessing them from the start of June.”

The funds cover essential operational expenses, including learning and teaching support materials, municipal services, maintenance, and administrative costs.

ALSO READ: Veritas College assists Children’s Haven in time of need

They also ensure equal access to quality education for all learners, regardless of the socio-economic status of the community, support schools that cannot raise adequate funds through school fees, and assist schools in implementing the provisions of the South African Schools Act (SASA) and the national NNSSF.

“We recognise that the funds are also key in the promotion of proper school governance, financial management, and improved educational outcomes while addressing historical injustices of our society and improving conditions in previously underfunded public schools,” Maile added.

According to the regulations, the subsidies must be paid on or before May 15 (50%) and again on or before November 15 (50%).

Schools have already received the final allocation letters, which indicate how much they will receive from the department during the financial year.

ALSO READ: GALLERY: Springs Boys High School celebrates life and legacy of band master Shawn Boucher