By BAKANG MOKOTO
7 March 2025- The Northern Cape Department of Education said it is pleased to announce the successful disbursement of R100 million to schools as part of the norms and standard allocations. The department said these funds have been allocated for essential needs, including Learning and Teaching Support Materials, municipal services, special schools, hostel subsidies, Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres and learner transport.
The Northern Cape Department of Education spokesperson, Geoffrey van der Merwe said a total of R22 million has been paid directly to municipalities across the province to assist schools struggling to cover their municipal service costs. Van der Merwe said this intervention was crucial in preventing electricity disconnections at schools, which could have negatively impacted their operations.
“Although there remains a shortfall in the funding provided, we are happy to report that schools are continuing to operate smoothly without any disruptions. The department is in ongoing communication with the Provincial Treasury to ensure the timely disbursement of funds to schools in the new financial year.
“With this matter now resolved, we urge all our stakeholders and partners in education to unite in our efforts to improve learner outcomes and the overall quality of education. Our department officials are working diligently to provide continuous support to schools and learners,” he said.
The Guardian 