For yet another year, many children in eMalahleni have missed the critical first weeks of the school year due to ongoing delays in school admissions, leaving parents frustrated and anxious.

Since the start of the 2026 academic year, parents have been flooding local circuit offices in a desperate attempt to secure placement for their children. Some parents report making repeated visits as early as January 12, only to be told to return on another day.

On January 27, dozens of parents spent the entire day standing in long queues at the circuit offices. Many were forced to miss work while searching for schools willing to admit their children. Tensions ran high as parents described the process as exhausting and disorganised.

According to parents, lists of grades requiring assistance from the circuit office were compiled, but this did little to ease the situation. Several parents were turned away and instructed to come back the following day, adding to growing concerns and uncertainty.

“We are worried because our children are already behind,” said one parent. “This has become a routine every year, and nothing seems to change.”

@witbanknews For yet another year, many children in eMalahleni have missed the critical first weeks of the school year due to ongoing delays in school admissions, leaving parents frustrated and anxious. Since the start of the 2026 academic year, parents have been flooding local circuit offices in a desperate attempt to secure placement for their children. Some parents report making repeated visits as early as January 12, only to be told to return on another day. #education #emalahleni #school #Witbank #fyp ♬ original sound – witbanknews

Parents expressed anger and disappointment, saying the delays not only disrupt their children’s education but also place financial and emotional strain on families. Despite the frustration, many parents say they are still hoping for a positive resolution.

Responding to the concerns, education spokesperson Jasper Zwane said the department is aware of the challenges and is taking steps to address the backlog.

“The department has set a deadline to ensure all outstanding admissions are finalised,” Zwane said. “All children who need to be at school must be placed as soon as possible.”

READ MORE HERE: eMalahleni parents frustrated and desperate as school placement delays drag on

Zwane acknowledged that some parents have been advised to register their children at schools with available space, but others insist on registering them at full schools.

“We also see cases where children are moved between schools, which adds to the challenge. We urge parents to prioritise what is best for their children’s education,” he said.

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