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

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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

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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.
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