Gauteng Education Cuts Hit All Quintile 5 Schools - Not Just Afrikaans Ones

The Gauteng Education Department is under fire after confirming that all Quintile 5 schools - not just Afrikaans or former Model C institutions, will face deep funding cuts. At least 600 schools will lose over 60% of their state subsidy, dropping from R879 to R315 per learner by April 2026. Civil society groups, including Equal Education, warn this will force schools to hike fees and push middle-class families into financial strain. The DA has called the move “a betrayal of public education”. Phemelo speaks to Equal Education Communications Manager, Ayanda Sishi-Wigzell about the fallout and what it means for parents and learners.