Back to school 2026: Government pledges placement for all learners
Learners return to classrooms nationwide as the 2026 academic year commences.
Image: FILE/Mujahid Safodien
The South African government has assured parents and caregivers that public schools across the country are ready to receive learners as the 2026 academic year officially begins, with processes in place to accommodate those still awaiting placement.
Government extended its well-wishes to millions of learners returning to classrooms, including those attending school for the first time, describing the start of the school year as “an important milestone” supported by teachers, school management teams, parents and education stakeholders.
“Government is ready to receive learners at public schools nationwide and assures parents and caregivers that learners who have not yet been placed will be allocated space,” the government said in a statement.
Provincial education departments, Government added, are continuing to manage late applications and placement processes in line with available capacity and infrastructure planning.
As teaching and learning resume, learners have been urged to remain focused and disciplined. Government emphasised the importance of healthy routines, noting that “good health habits such as regular attendance, adequate rest, balanced nutrition, and physical activity are essential to effective learning and overall well-being”.
Learners were also encouraged to make responsible choices that support both their academic progress and personal development.
Parents and caregivers were reminded of their role in learner success.
Government is calling on families to “create a safe, stable, and conducive home environment for learning by establishing daily routines, monitoring school attendance and homework”.
It also addressed challenges facing communities affected by recent flash floods in parts of Limpopo. Government said it remains mindful of the impact on schooling in those areas, stressing that “the safety, well-being, and continued access to education for affected learners remain a priority”.
The Limpopo provincial education department will advise when it is safe for schooling to resume where disruptions have occurred.
Concluding the message, Government called for collective responsibility in ensuring a successful academic year.
“Government calls on all stakeholders: parents, educators, learners, communities, and social partners to work together to create safe, supportive, and disciplined learning environments that enable every learner to reach their full potential.”
IOL News