Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane expressed concern over the high number of incomplete online applications for Grade 1 and Grade 8 placements for the 2025 academic year.
More than 610,000 Gauteng admissions applications for Grade 1 and Grade 8 have been received since the application opened on 11 July 2024. The number of applications the department receives will increase as the application window will remain open until 12 August 2024.
GDE ADMISSION APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN
As of 23 July 2024, there were 146,268 incomplete applications, which according to the MEC is risking learner placements.
The MEC urged parents to complete the 5-Step Application Process, which includes registering parents, home addresses, and learner details, applying to 3-5 schools, and submitting required documents.
Incomplete applications, including those missing documents, will not be processed.
Required Documents For GDE Registration
When you want to register your child for a public school in Gauteng the GDE requires the following documents for registration.
- Parent's ID or passport
- The child's birth certificate or passport
- Proof of work address
- Latest Grade 7 school report (for Grade 8 applications)
- Immunisation report
- Proof of home address
The GDE has also discouraged the use of internet cafes for applications due to frequent errors. They add that internet cafes have in some cases mixed up parents' documents when submitting which complicates the admissions process.
Furthermore, the GDE discourages parents from using internet cafes for applications. It has been found that these establishments often fail to complete the 5-Step Application Process correctly and mix up parent information, leading to further complications and incomplete applications.
The department also cautioned against falsifying documents, as all information will be verified. "Parents must also avoid falsifying documents. All submitted information is subject to verification by the schools. Children of parents found guilty of submitting fraudulent documents will not be placed," said the department.
The Department added that parents who require assistance or face technological constraints may visit one of the 80 decentralised walk-in centres and all public schools.
The GDE remains committed to assisting parents who may not have the means to apply online. All schools in the province, as well as our 80 Decentralised Walk-In Centres, are available to 2 provide support throughout the application process, ensuring that no child is left behind due to technological constraints.
GDE Admission Placement Period
The GDE confirmed that the placement period will commence on 16 September 2024 and will continue until all learners are placed. During this time placement offers will be sent to the parent's cell phone number, and the offer must be accepted within 7 days.
The department urged all parents and guardians to adhere to these guidelines and deadlines to ensure a smooth and efficient admission process for their children entering Grade 1 and Grade 8 in 2025.
