As of January 6, a total of 7,924 Grade R, Grade 1, and Grade 8 learners in Mpumalanga are yet to be placed in schools.

The breakdown per district is as follows: Bohlabela (1,972 learners), Ehlanzeni (743), Gert Sibande (1,862), and Nkangala (3,347). This was revealed by the MEC for Education, Cathy Dlamini, during the launch of the Department of Education’s 2025 Back to School Programme at Phatfwa Secondary School in Mbonisweni Village.

The placement process for the 2025 school year began in May 2024 and closed on August 31. Dlamini assured that the department is working with schools to resolve challenges to ensure teaching and learning commence on January 15.

The MEC cited various factors contributing to the delays:

• High demand for English-medium classes in urban areas.
• Increased migration from rural to urban areas due to job opportunities.
• Parents moving children from independent schools to public ones due to affordability.
• Some parents refusing placements in schools with available spaces or applying late for admission.

Dlamini emphasized that priority is being given to placing learners in Grades 1 and 8 and urged parents to collaborate with schools and the department to uphold the best interests of the learners.

The department remains committed to resolving these challenges and ensuring all learners are accommodated.