Gauteng plans to improve online admissions amid migration growth and classroom shortages

Gauteng Education Minister Lebogan Mabile stated that ongoing rapid urbanization is increasing the demand for school places, putting pressure on educational infrastructure and classrooms.

Issues such as overcrowding, difficulties in student enrollment, and a shortage of teaching classrooms remain among the most pressing concerns in Gauteng's education system against the backdrop of accelerated city growth.

These problems were highlighted in the findings of the 'It Takes a Village to Raise a Child' outreach program conducted by Gauteng Education Minister Lebogan Mabile, which gathered feedback from residents across the province.

According to the report, parents repeatedly expressed dissatisfaction regarding the allocation of student places, school overcrowding, and insufficient classroom capacity.

Mabile emphasized that the outreach program also confirmed that fair access to quality education is one of the main challenges facing communities.

He noted that Gauteng's status as South Africa's economic hub continues to attract thousands of families seeking opportunities, which intensifies the strain on educational infrastructure.

Mabile added: 'While migration reflects confidence in our Province, it also creates exceptional pressure on schools, infrastructure, and student placement systems.'

To address these difficulties, the provincial government announced work on strengthening the Online Admissions System to enhance transparency and efficiency in allocating student places.

The report indicated that the Department of Education and the Department of eGovernment are collaborating to stabilize digital admissions, increase system resilience, and ensure the most effective placement of every suitable student.

Despite the focus on technology, Mabile acknowledged that digital systems alone cannot solve the province's educational problems.

He stated that the quality of education still depends on the availability of sufficient classrooms, adequate numbers of teachers, learning materials, electricity, water, sanitation, transport infrastructure, and functioning municipal services.

The results are expected to influence future infrastructure planning and student placement strategies amidst Gauteng's continued population growth.

iol.co.zaJuly 30, 11:57

Gauteng Department of Education Welcomes Oprah Winfrey Academy's New National Scholarship Fund Plan

The Gauteng Minister of Education, Lebogan Mabile, welcomed Oprah Winfrey's announcement regarding the next phase of the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls (OWLAG). The Academy will cease to exist in its current format and transition to operating as a national scholarship program.

Evolution of the Educational Program

After nearly two decades, the academy will conclude its operation as a single boarding campus by the end of 2027, shifting to an expanded scholarship model. This transition marks a significant new chapter in the institution's history and its contribution to girls' education in South Africa.

Mabile noted that this shift represents the evolution of one of South Africa's most significant educational partnerships. He emphasized that for almost two decades, the Academy has served as a prime example of what can be achieved through focused societal investment in developing young women's leadership qualities and education.

Achievements and Gratitude

Since its opening in 2007, the academy has provided education to over 1000 talented students from disadvantaged backgrounds, based on the principles of academic excellence, integrity, compassion, and determination. Mabile expressed deep gratitude to Ms. Oprah Winfrey for her exceptional vision, generosity, and unwavering commitment to the education of young South African women.

He stated that through this Academy, she has not just built a school but has nurtured leaders, expanded opportunities, restored hope, and changed lives. Mabile added that the impact of these investments will be felt for generations and across the country.

Philosophy and Legacy

Lebogan Mabile referenced the words of the late African revolutionary Thomas Sankara, who asserted: 'There is no true social revolution without the liberation of women.' He stressed that sustainable national development depends on the conscious empowerment of women and girls through education, leadership, and equal opportunities.

Mabile also mentioned the words of renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, who says that 'We teach girls to shrink.' He stated that the duty of a democratic and caring society is the complete opposite of this.

In Mabile's view, OWLAG embodied this mission for nearly two decades. He concluded that investing in the education and holistic development of young women proves that supporting girls is not an act of charity, but a strategic investment in national development. Every educated girl strengthens a family, uplifts a community, increases economic participation, and contributes to building a more just and prosperous South Africa.

Asset Transfer and Future

Mabile reported that, in accordance with the original partnership agreement, the residential campus will be transferred to the Gauteng Department of Education after the 2027 academic year concludes. Administrative transition processes are underway to ensure the orderly and responsible transfer of the Academy's assets and facilities.

Oprah Winfrey stated that investing in the education of young women remains her greatest legacy. She shared that her mission does not end with one campus but continues in every girl whose future can be transformed through education. According to the plan, current students will graduate by 2027, and younger students will be transferred to top South African schools with full coverage provided by Winfrey.

A Winfrey representative confirmed that the new model will allow for the doubling of the number of young women receiving fully funded education. The Academy was founded in 2000 following a meeting between Winfrey and Nelson Mandela and opened in 2007 after $100 million in investment. During its operation, it educated over 1000 students, 870 of whom graduated to universities worldwide.