Following several pleas for intervention by parents of learners at Lenasia South Secondary School to GLOBE POST last week regarding allegations that year-end school reports were being withheld due to non-payment or partial payment of school fees, the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has assured this newspaper that it has taken note of these concerns.
‘’We take these allegations seriously and wish to address them comprehensively. We urge parents to raise their concerns with the school’s governing body (SGB) and to escalate unresolved issues directly to the Gauteng Department of Education. We are committed to ensuring that no learner is disadvantaged and are currently engaging with the school to verify the allegations and ensure compliance with departmental policies,’’ Steve Mabona, GDE spokesperson, told GLOBE POST yesterday.
Here is his detailed response:
Firstly, the Department emphasizes that no learner may be denied access to their academic results, report cards, or educational progression based on the non-payment of school fees. This practice is in contravention of the South African Schools Act, which explicitly protects the rights of learners in both fee-paying and non-fee-paying schools. Schools may, however, take legal action against parents for outstanding fees but cannot penalize learners.
The Department recognizes the financial challenges faced by many families and encourages schools to follow appropriate legal channels to address outstanding school fees without jeopardizing a learner’s right to education. Parents who are unable to afford school fees are reminded that they may apply for a fee exemption as per the South African Schools Act.
For further assistance or to report such incidents, parents are encouraged to contact the Gauteng Department of Education’s hotline at 0800 000 789 or email gdeinfo@gauteng.gov.za.
‘’The Department remains committed to safeguarding the rights of learners and ensuring equitable access to education for all,’’ Mabona added.
