Gauteng Education says 95% of Grade 1 and Grade 8 learners placed for the 2026 academic year

The Gauteng department of education said that it has placed more than 95% of Grade 1 and Grade 8 learners for the 2026 academic year.

The department says Grade 1 placements currently stand at 97%, while Grade 8 placements are just over 94%.

Spokesperson Steve Mabona said that Ekurhuleni is under the most pressure, with schools in Kempton Park, Tembisa, and Alberton feeling the strain.

He added that over 700 schools have already reached full placement capacity.

"We are working tirelessly to make sure that all these learners are placed as per what we have committed. We just want to appeal to parents and guardians that we will continue with the process of the placement up until all learners are placed."