Over 600,000 applications were received in less than two weeks as Gauteng pushes for timely Grade 1 and 8 school admissions. Image: GDE/The Citizen.
(The Post News)– Since launching its online admissions platform less than two weeks ago, Gauteng’s Department of Education has already received a record-breaking 600,000+ applications for Grade 1 and Grade 8 placements.
This surge reflects growing trust in the new system and a strong commitment from parents to secure spots early. The Department urges parents to complete the five-step application process by August 29 to avoid delays.
Department spokesperson Steve Mabona said that as of 2 p.m. on Tuesday, approximately 600,000 applications were recorded, with over 254,000 for Grade One and just over 346,000 for Grade Eight.
Mabona urged parents to visit gdeadmissions.gov.za and submit their applications as early as possible. According to Mabona, early applications facilitate more effective resource allocation and better planning.
The highest numbers of applications come from Tshwane West, Centurion, Midrand, Ekurhuleni, Johannesburg South, and Johannesburg North. Due to the particularly high volume in Johannesburg North, especially around Cosmo City, the department plans to open a new primary school to ease overcrowding and accommodate demand.
Mabona applauded parents who have applied early and urged others not to delay. “Timely applications enable us to provide schools with necessary resources, including mobile classrooms,” he explained.
Introduced this year, the online system aims to streamline admissions and improve planning. Last year, the department faced challenges with late or incomplete applications, but the current volume of early submissions marks a significant improvement.
The application window closes on August 29. Parents who miss this deadline may experience delays in placement. For assistance or more information, parents can visit the admissions website or contact the Department of Education directly.
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