IN CONVERSATION WITH SERGIO ISA DOS SANTOS, DA SHADOW MEC FOR EDUCATION

The Gauteng Department of Education has not yet announced the opening date for the 2027 Grade 1 and Grade 8 admissions cycle, raising concerns about a possible repeat of previous school placement challenges in the province. Critics argue that the delay in launching the admissions process leaves parents uncertain and reduces the time available for applications, verification, and final placement of learners before the start of the new academic year. This situation has previously resulted in thousands of learners being placed late, with some starting school weeks or even months after the academic year has begun. Concerns have been raised that late opening of the admissions system places strain on administrative processes, leading to rushed decisions, possible errors, and ongoing uncertainty for families. In past 09:15 admission cycles, particularly in 2026, some learners reportedly remained unplaced as schools reopened, contributing to disruption in early learning time. Opposition voices have called for the department to urgently announce the 2027 admissions timeline and strengthen support systems such as decentralised walk-in centres to assist parents with registration and applications. The issue of school admissions in Gauteng has remained a recurring policy and administrative challenge, with stakeholders emphasising the need for earlier planning and more efficient processing to ensure that all learners are placed before the start of the school year. Instagram · Twitter