Latest News & Developments
department of basic education
More than 500 000 South African pupils still depend on unsafe pit toilets
Over 500 000 South African pupils still rely on unsafe pit toilets, highlighting a critical sanitation crisis as the government and NGOs strive for change.
Education minister trumpet progress but infrastructure challenges remain
Minister Siviwe Gwarube presents progress on school infrastructure in South Africa, addressing both achievements and ongoing challenges in a recent parliamentary session.
School environments remain fertile ground for sexual harassment of children
Dr Sheetal Bhoola says children enduring sexual harassment, especially at school, has almost become an accepted norm in South Africa.
KZN Grade R teachers on brink of strike over salary delays
Grade R teachers in KZN are employed on renewable yearly contracts, which were renewed in February.
South African teachers seek opportunities abroad amid local job shortages
"I was forced to leave the country because I wanted a permanent job"
Gauteng Education investigates corporal punishment allegations against Madisong High School principal
The Gauteng Department of Education has taken a decisive action by launching an internal investigation into alarming allegations of corporal punishment against the principal of Madisong High School, following multiple claims of physical assault from students.
North West MEC promises justice for deceased Grade 3 learner Ogone Sedupelele
Viola Motsumi, the North West Education MEC, has assured the family of Ogone Sedupelele that an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the Grade 3 learner's tragic death at GJ Podile Primary School is underway.
BOSA demands accountability for R5. 2 million misappropriation of school funds in Eastern Cape
BOSA fights for accountability as R5. 2 million meant for Eastern Cape schools is misappropriated, threatening the future of vulnerable students.
Parliament's education committee demands justice in Bergview College rape case, criticises delayed response
Parliament's Select Committee has condemned the Eastern Cape Education Department's 'knee-jerk' deregistration of Bergview College as an inadequate response to the rape of seven-year-old Cwecwe, demanding immediate arrests and proper victim support.
Gauteng's R207 million budget allocation brings new hope for teacher assistants
MEC Finance and Economic Development, Lebogang Maile, announced that the Gauteng Department of Education has allocated R207 million in the 2025/26 financial year specifically for the PYEI, which targets the Teachers Assistant Programme.
How South Africa is tackling its early learning childhood crisis
The South African government and private organisations implement policies and reforms to overcome the early childhood development challenge of pupils not being able to read and write.
Social worker warns MiDesk backpacks could be used as weapons at schools
Midesk backpacks will cause a psychological burden to kids and limit their movement.
Basic Education Department defends foldable desk donations amid criticism
Basic Education Department clarifies its position on foldable desk donations in response to parental and educator concerns.
Bullying Crisis: Over 500 cases reported in South African schools in the first term
500 cases of bullying in schools are caused by geographic inequalities, discrimination, body shaming and social media contributing to this factors.
The journey of retired teachers full of challenges and triumphs in education
Three retired teachers reflect on their journey, the challenges they faced, and their commitment to improving the lives of their pupils.
Mmusi Maimane slams government for heavy desks turned school bags in Eastern Cape
In a scathing critique, Mmusi Maimane accuses the government of neglecting essential school supplies while burdening children with heavy desks turned school bags.
Durban schoolboy still fighting for his life after stabbing incident at West Ridge High School
An aspiring pupil's dreams have been interrupted as he fights for his life in a Durban hospital after being allegedly attacked by an assailant armed with a weapon on the school’s premises.
Probe launched into death of five-year-old boy allegedly struck by scholar transport
The chilling incident happened outside Phiwokuhle Qophelo Nzuza’s school, Orissa Primary School, in Isipingo, south of Durban, leaving fellow pupils and teachers shaken.
'You're turning children into walking billboards': Education Minister faces backlash over branded portable desks for Grade 1 learners
Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube sparks nationwide debate after endorsing McDonald's-branded portable desk initiative at Cape Town's St Paul's Primary School, with parents and activists condemning the move as exploitative advertising.
80% of SA Grade 3 learners cannot read for meaning, 2030 Reading Panel reveals
The 2030 Reading Panel reveals a devastating literacy crisis in South African schools, with 80% of Grade 3 learners unable to read for meaning. The report highlights critical teacher shortages, insufficient funding, and calls for an R18 billion injection into early childhood development.
Its a bluff, no Grade 13 in 2026
The Department of Basic Education warned that there were no plans to increase
Is Grade 13 coming to South Africa? Education department sets the record straight
Are South African schools really adding a Grade 13? The Department of Basic Education clarifies the truth behind viral claims.
Education at the heart of Lenasia’s resilience
Celebrating 70 years of Lenz. . . with Dr Ismail Vadi
Minister addresses student concerns amid NSFAS challenges
Students at the University of KwaZulu-Natal voice their frustrations over NSFAS funding and accommodation issues during a visit from Higher Education and Training (DHET) Minister Dr Nobuhle Nkabane.
Legal recourse and harassment orders for a safer school environment
Legal recourse and harassment orders for a safer school environment