GDE to take over operations at Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy

The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls (OWLAG) is set to enter a new chapter, with the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) preparing to take ownership of the residential campus after the 2027 academic year, while Oprah Winfrey expands her investment in girls’ education through a national scholarship programme.

The announcement follows confirmation by Ms Oprah Winfrey that the Academy will transition from its current model to a broader scholarship initiative, extending educational opportunities to academically talented young women across South Africa. The Department said the move marks the evolution of one of the country’s most significant educational partnerships.

Since opening its doors in 2007, the Academy has educated more than 1,000 academically gifted learners from disadvantaged communities, with a strong emphasis on academic excellence, leadership, integrity, compassion and purpose.

GDE spokesperson, Onwabile Lubhelwana said the transition would preserve the Academy’s legacy while ensuring its future remains firmly rooted in educational excellence.

“The Gauteng Department of Education is committed to preserving and advancing the Academy’s legacy of academic excellence, ethical leadership and educational opportunity. We will ensure that this exceptional institution continues to serve the people of Gauteng while honouring the vision upon which it was established,” said Lubhelwana.

He added that the Department would continue safeguarding the institution’s legacy so that future generations of learners benefit from a school synonymous with excellence, discipline, innovation and leadership.

The Department also welcomed confirmation that all learners currently enrolled at the Academy will complete their education with uninterrupted academic, financial and personal support, providing certainty for learners, parents, educators and alumnae during the transition.

Lubhelwana said Winfrey’s contribution to girls’ education would continue to have a lasting impact on South Africa: “Her extraordinary legacy reminds us that when we educate and empower a girl, we do more than change one life; we unlock human potential, strengthen families, transform communities and help build the capable, inclusive and prosperous South Africa to which we all aspire.”