Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
30 January 2025 | 11:19 CAT

Department of Basic Education announces the official closure of late applications for Grade 1 and Grade 8 placements in Gauteng.

With the deadline for late applications now closed, Gauteng parents seeking Grade One and Grade Eight placements for their children had until today to secure a spot. The online system, which opened for late applications earlier this year, served as a final opportunity for those who missed the initial application window.

Speaking to Radio Islam International, Gauteng Department of Education spokesperson Steve Mabona emphasized the importance of this process. “The late application assisted us in ensuring that all parents who might have missed the initial period—whether due to relocation, incomplete applications, or other reasons—could still place their children in schools,” said Mabona.

Since the online application period commenced in July last year, more than 344,000 learners were placed. During the late application phase, an additional 32,000 learners secured placement. “Once a parent picked a school from the available options, the child was automatically placed, eliminating any waiting period,” he added.

Despite the department’s efforts, concerns remained over school capacity, particularly in high-demand areas. Mabona acknowledged these challenges, stating, “We know that some parents chose schools that were far from their homes. While we worked to accommodate them, full schools made placement difficult. However, we collaborated with these schools to adjust class capacities where possible.”

The department continued to urge parents to act swiftly. “We encouraged parents to log into the system, select a school, and ensure their child could start attending classes immediately,” said Mabona.

With school already in session, the department worked closely with institutions to minimize disruptions. “Once placed, learners could start school the very next day,” Mabona assured.

As the final deadline passed, parents were advised to have finalized their applications to prevent any further delays in their children’s education.

For more information, parents were directed to visit the Gauteng Department of Education’s online portal or contact their offices directly.

Listen to the full interview on Your World Today with Mufti Yusuf Moosagie and Steve Mabona here.