GP Education says it’s intensifying its crackdown on illegal schools
Education MEC Maile says officials have visited 61 schools suspected of operating unlawfully
The Gauteng Education Department is ramping up efforts to combat illegally operating independent schools in the province. During a media briefing in Johannesburg, Education MEC Lebogang Maile disclosed that officials had inspected 61 schools suspected of unlawful operations between January and September of this year. Maile provided an update on the status of independent schools in Gauteng, addressing issues such as registration, subsidies, accountability, and actions taken against illegally operating schools.
Some of these schools have since ceased operations, according to Maile. In total, 32 schools received closure letters as part of the ongoing crackdown. Of the schools targeted in 2026, seven have already stopped operating, while four have applied for registration with the department, and two school directors were arrested during the process.
Maile emphasized the importance of parents playing an active role in ensuring their children receive education in properly registered institutions that meet safety and quality standards. He advised parents to verify a school's registration before paying fees and to report any suspicions of illegal operations to the department.
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