Almost 150 000 online applications received so far
Parents entering home and work addresses incorrectly have been identified as some of the challenges in regards to applications for Grade One and Grade Eight.
By around 3pm yesterday (April 16), the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) had received 144 124 successful applications for Grade One and Grade Eight.
Department spokesperson Steve Mabona said 10 000 successful applications were received within the first 10 minutes of the department’s 2019 online application system opening, adding that the system is efficient in handling a large volume of applications.
The department has, however, identified some challenges:
- Parents entering home and work addresses incorrectly.
- Delays with sending waiting list numbers.
- Web operating systems.
“With regards to the addresses, we appeal to parents to first select their municipality, then select the town. Thereafter, parents can select the township or suburb in which they live,” said Mabona.
“When you follow this procedure, you should not have a problem with finding your street address.
“We urge parents to make use of Google Chrome, as our site is linked with Google Maps, which makes it easier with regards to the addresses. Google Chrome is faster and the most compatible with the online application system.”
Mabona added that they are experiencing delays with regards to the waiting list numbers, however, a mobile service provider is assisting in this regard.
The Gauteng MEC for Education, Panyaza Lesufi, said the online application system is the future.
“It provides for a fair and equitable opportunity for parents to apply at public schools. We are very humbled by the support and response from parents.”
Applications for grades one and eight close at midnight on May 28.
Parents must visit www.gdeadmissions.gov.za to apply.
Mabona said any parent who lacks access to the internet or requires face-to-face assistance should visit one of the decentralised application centres or a community library.
The department will operate 57 admissions centres across the 15 education districts.
Alternatively, parents can contact the department’s call centre on (011) 355 0000, toll free number 0800 000 789 or email Gdeinfo@gauteng.gov.za
Parents with Grade R learners must apply online for Grade 1.
For all other grades (two to seven and nine to 11) parents should apply at the school.
