The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Gauteng has raised concerns over plans by the Department of Education to pay schools their second tranche of Norms and Standards Funding in instalments until March next year.

The department has reportedly informed schools that full payment will not be made by the November 15 deadline, with future payments dependent on the availability of funds.

GDE will not pay schools their full second tranche by 15 November. Instalments until March 2027. Subject to cash availability.
Michael Waters MPL: R971 million still outstanding on the first tranche.

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The department still has R971 million outstanding from the first tranche as of September this year, including money owed to public special schools.

DA Gauteng Education spokesperson Michael Waters is calling for an urgent payment plan.

“This comes after the department already failed to pay its first tranche in full, with R971 million still outstanding as of September. Schools need this money to pay electricity bills, buy textbooks, maintain classrooms and provide quality education. Yet while our schools are struggling, the Gauteng government has allocated billions of rands towards a failed e-toll system. The ANC government can find billions for e-tolls but cannot find the money to fund our children’s education. The DA demands an urgent payment plan. Our schools are not banks, and our children’s education cannot be put on hold.”