Progress made on placement issues

Learner placement for entry grades in Polokwane and surrounding areas remains a challenge as demand continues to exceed available space at several schools, the Department of Education has confirmed.

- Cecilia Mogashoa

Despite the pressure, the department says steady progress is being made ahead of the 2026 academic year. Department spokesperson Mike Maringa said 84 013 Gr R learners have been placed, with 320 still awaiting placement. In Gr 1, 109 425 learners have been placed while 216 remain unplaced. For Gr 8, 112 624 learners have secured placements, with 781 still on waiting lists