Media Release
Minister of Education Donald Grant
Western Cape

5 February, 2013

Khayelitsha schools have 950 places available.

Statement by Minister Donald Grant, Minister of Education, Western Cape

It has come to our attention that the illegal "school" in Zwelitsha has expanded to another venue.

We have also received reports that there were more learners present at the "school' today, than yesterday.

The WCED are looking into the possibility that members of the community are encouraging learners enrolled at other registered schools to leave their schools and to attend this "illegal operation."

There have been reports from other provinces of community members and unemployed educators setting up an illegal school to force the provincial department to establish a new school in the area. The community starts to back the "school" so as to put pressure on Government authorities to build a new one.

The Ministry and the WCED does not plan education provision on the basis of intimidation and pressure.

THE FACT IS: THERE ARE ENOUGH PLACES IN KHAYELITSHA FOR THESE LEARNERS.

Certain community members are claiming that the schools in Khayelitsha are overcrowded. While some schools are more in demand than others, there are places available. We have confirmed with each of the school principals in Khayelitsha and there are over 950 places available as of today.

Parents that have not enrolled their child at a registered school can enroll them now.

They simply have to pick up the phone and call 021 900 7038 or 021 900 7173. Their child will be placed in a school immediately. Should a child have to attend a school outside 5km, learner transport will be considered.

These parents have now run out of excuses. They have had plenty of opportunities and their fabricated claims will not be accepted.

It is now time for them to be responsible for their children's education needs.

The law clearly states that they have to register their child at a public ordinary school. They have not done so and have neglected to fulfill their duty as parents.

Their children are not receiving a proper education and they will not be able to progress to another grade if they continue in this manner.

They need to ignore the propaganda that is being communicated by self- interested parties and consider the fact that if the people operating this institution really had the learners' interests at heart they would encourage these children to attend schools where there is proper resources and teaching materials.

But their own selfish interests are trumping that of these children. There can be no question of the adults who claim to be teaching receiving a salary from the WCED.

For enquiries, contact Bronagh Casey:  072 724 1422 or bronagh.casey@westerncape.gov.za.

Media enquiries:
Bronagh Casey
Spokesperson for the Minister of Education, Donald Grant
Western Cape Education Department
Tel: 021 467 2377
Fax: 072 724 1422