Phikiswayo Primary School proudly invites learners, parents, educators, and the broader community to its annual Sports Day under the theme: “A Healthy Mind in a Healthy Body.”

The event aims to promote physical fitness, teamwork, discipline, and holistic learner development through sport and recreation activities.

Venue: Pholani Sports Ground, Ntuzuma.

Date: 22 May 2026.

Time: 09h00 – 14h00.

Together, let us encourage active lifestyles and celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship among our learners.

#PhikiswayoPrimarySchool
#SportsDay2026
#HealthyMindHealthyBody
#ActiveLearners
#BuildingFutureChampions

Big 5 Hlabisa Local Municipality

WATCH | The MEC for Education in KwaZulu-Natal, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, remarking during the Umkhanyakude OSS/DDM, Big 5 Hlabisa Local Municipality.

“We appreciate the progress of the construction of the reservoir in the area, which will greatly benefit the community,” said Mr Hlomuka.

Venue: Inkosi Makabongwe Hall.

Date: 20 May 2026.

#OperationSukumaSakhe #DistrictDevelopmentModel #ServiceDelivery #Big5Hlabisa #UMkhanyakudeDistrict #WorkingTogether

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1CeDkqQYj4/

WATCH | The spirit of music, unity and excellence echoed throughout the hall as Intermediate Phase and Secondary School choirs captivated audiences with outstanding performances during the South African Schools Choral Eisteddfod (SASCE).

The championship continues to provide learners with a platform to showcase artistic talent, discipline and cultural expression through choral music.

“Arts and culture remain an important pillar in developing confident, creative and well-rounded learners,” said the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka.

Venue: Uvongo Town Hall, Ugu District.

Date: 20 May 2026.

#GrowingKwaZuluNatalTogether
#SASCE2026
#KZNDOE
#ChoralExcellence
#ArtsInEducation

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Big 5 Hlabisa Local Municipality

WATCH | The MEC for Education in KwaZulu-Natal, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, remarking during the Umkhanyakude OSS/DDM, Big 5 Hlabisa Local Municipality.

“We appreciate the progress of the construction of the reservoir in the area, which will greatly benefit the community,” said Mr Hlomuka.

Venue: Inkosi Makabongwe Hall.

Date: 20 May 2026.

#OperationSukumaSakhe #DistrictDevelopmentModel #ServiceDelivery #Big5Hlabisa #UMkhanyakudeDistrict #WorkingTogether

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1CeDkqQYj4/

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, through the National Services Desk, wishes to inform all Tourism learners to remain attentive to all official communication and support programmes related to curriculum delivery, examination preparation, and learner support initiatives.

Learners are encouraged to actively participate in all academic support sessions and utilise available educational resources to strengthen performance and achieve excellence in Tourism studies.

The Department remains committed to supporting every learner towards academic success and quality educational outcomes.
Issued by the National Services Desk.

Date: 19 May 2026.

#GrowingEducationTogether #TourismEducation #KZNDOE #LearnerSupport #AcademicExcellence #2026TourismPat #AllTheBest #TimeToShine

TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF TRURO HOUSE BUILDING

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education advises all staff and stakeholders that the Truro House Building, located at Victoria Embankment in Durban, is currently experiencing operational challenges.

As a result, the building has been temporarily closed from 13 May 2026 until the first week of June 2026.

The Department apologises for any inconvenience caused and appreciates your understanding and cooperation during this period.

Issued by:
Chief Directorate: Administrative Management Services

Well, do not despair, we have got your back. Here is EDU-NEWS Vol 76 April 2026, click the link below to stay informed on all our updates.

Link: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/a93b31721f.html

#KZNDOE #StayingInformed #KeepingYouUpdated
#EDUNEWS

The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, wishes all Grade 12 learners every success as they commence their examinations.
“Kindly follow the examination rules and regulations to ensure you maintain the integrity and credibility of the examination process,” said the KZN MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka.

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education urges all candidates to remain focused, disciplined, and committed to honest academic conduct throughout the examination period. Integrity, hard work, and determination remain the foundation of meaningful achievement.

Best wishes to all matric candidates as they strive for excellence and make the Province proud.

#WriteWithIntegrity
#ClassOf2026
#NSCExaminations
#KZNDOE
#LeaveNoLearnerBehind
#GrowingKwaZuluNatalTogether

The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, wishes all Grade 12 learners every success as they commence their examinations.
“Kindly follow the examination rules and regulations to ensure you maintain the integrity and credibility of the examination process,” said the KZN MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka.

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education urges all candidates to remain focused, disciplined, and committed to honest academic conduct throughout the examination period. Integrity, hard work, and determination remain the foundation of meaningful achievement.

Best wishes to all matric candidates as they strive for excellence and make the Province proud.

#WriteWithIntegrity
#ClassOf2026
#NSCExaminations
#KZNDOE
#LeaveNoLearnerBehind
#GrowingKwaZuluNatalTogether

As part of the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education’s Strategic Planning Session, Commission 3 convened under the leadership of the Chief Director for Curriculum Management, Ms Sindi Zakuza-Njakazi, focusing on the theme: “Innovation in Curriculum Delivery.”

The commission engaged in robust and forward-looking discussions centred on the professional development required for educators to transition effectively into innovative and modern curriculum delivery approaches. Deliberations explored strategies aimed at strengthening teaching practices, improving learner outcomes, and equipping educators with the necessary skills to respond to the evolving demands of the education sector.

The session reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to building a future-ready education system driven by innovation, collaboration, and continuous professional growth.

 Venue: Riverside Hotel, Durban.

Date: 11 May 2026.

#KZNDOE #StrategicPlanningSession #CurriculumInnovation #InnovationInEducation #ProfessionalDevelopment #FutureReadyEducation #QualityEducation #TransformingEducation #GrowingFutureLeaders

As part of the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education’s Strategic Planning Session, Commission 2 convened under the leadership of Ms Ntokozo Mlaba, Chief Director for Finance Management, focusing on the theme: “Governance and Financial Accountability.”

The commission engaged in critical discussions aimed at strengthening financial governance, improving expenditure tracking systems, and addressing challenges related to under- and over-expenditure within the Department. The session highlighted the importance of sound financial management, accountability, and effective resource utilisation in advancing quality education and service delivery.

The deliberations reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to responsible governance, transparency, and ensuring that public resources are managed efficiently to support the educational needs of learners across KwaZulu-Natal.

Venue: Riverside Hotel, Durban.

Date: 11 May 2026.

#KZNDOE #StrategicPlanningSession #GovernanceAndAccountability #FinancialManagement #PublicSectorExcellence #QualityEducation #EffectiveGovernance #BuildingFutureLeaders #ServiceDelivery

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education’s Umlazi District successfully hosted Day 1 of the ABC Motsepe South African Schools Choral Eisteddfod (SASCE) Music Festival 2026 at the Amanzimtoti Civic Hall on 11 May 2026.

The prestigious music event brought together primary school learners from 21 schools across the district in a vibrant celebration of music, culture, discipline, and artistic excellence. The festival provided learners with a platform to showcase their musical abilities, build confidence, and strengthen teamwork through choral performances.

Welcoming guests and participants, Mr Joshua Ndlovu, Senior Education Specialist for Co-curricular Activities in Umlazi District, expressed appreciation for the growing participation in the competition and commended schools for their dedication to developing learner talent through music and the arts.

Addressing attendees, Ms Nomusa Shamase, Chief Education Specialist for Durban Central CMC, highlighted that the event was more than a competition. “Music reflects the harmony we want to see in our communities,” she said, emphasising the important role of music in promoting discipline, unity, and social cohesion among learners.

Participating schools performed two African songs, Antuntulele by T. Tsambo and Lefatshe La Bana by D. Mosidi, as well as two Western selections, Old Macdonald by T. D’Urfey and My Body by T. Mthiyane. The performances were evaluated by a panel of six adjudicators.

Competition Results

Foundation Phase African Song 1: Antuntulele by T. Tsambo

• 1st Place – Kuhlekwethu Primary School
  • 2nd Place – Josephine Makhanya Primary School
  • 3rd Place – Inselele Primary School

Western Song: Old Macdonald by T. D’Urfey

• 1st Place – Inselele Primary School
  • 2nd Place – Kuhlekwethu Primary School
  • 3rd Place – Josephine Makhanya Primary School

African Song 2: Lefatshe La Bana by D. Mosidi

• 1st Place – Bantuvukani Primary School
  • 2nd Place – Isikhumbuzo Primary School
  • 3rd Place – Josephine Makhanya Primary School

Western Song 2: My Body by T. Mthiyane

• 1st Place – Andrew Zondo Primary School
  • 2nd Place – Isikhwelo Primary School
  • 3rd Place – Inselele Primary School

The atmosphere throughout the day was filled with creativity, excitement, and a shared passion for music and cultural expression. The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education commends all participating schools, educators, adjudicators, organisers, and learners for contributing to the continued success and growth of the SASCE programme.

Venue: Amanzimtoti Civic Hall
Date: 11 May 2026

#KZNDOE #SASCE2026 #ABCMotsepeSASCE #UmlaziDistrict #MusicExcellence #ArtsInEducation #LearnerTalent #BuildingTheNation #SocialCohesion #QualityEducation #GrowingFutureLeaders

As part of the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education’s Strategic Planning Session, Commission 2 convened under the leadership of Ms Ntokozo Mlaba, Chief Director for Finance Management, focusing on the theme: “Governance and Financial Accountability.”

The commission engaged in critical discussions aimed at strengthening financial governance, improving expenditure tracking systems, and addressing challenges related to under- and over-expenditure within the Department. The session highlighted the importance of sound financial management, accountability, and effective resource utilisation in advancing quality education and service delivery.

The deliberations reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to responsible governance, transparency, and ensuring that public resources are managed efficiently to support the educational needs of learners across KwaZulu-Natal.

Venue: Riverside Hotel, Durban.

Date: 11 May 2026.

#KZNDOE #StrategicPlanningSession #GovernanceAndAccountability #FinancialManagement #PublicSectorExcellence #QualityEducation #EffectiveGovernance #BuildingFutureLeaders #ServiceDelivery

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education’s Newcastle CMC in the Amajuba District hosted a prestigious Excellence Awards Ceremony to recognise and celebrate exceptional performance, dedication, and commitment to quality education across schools within the circuit.

Held at Mbuso Kubheka School of Engineering and Technology, the ceremony brought together educators, principals, learners, organised labour, sponsors, and education stakeholders in honour of those who continue to raise the standard of teaching and learning.

Delivering remarks during the programme, Mr Zembethe Nkosi described the event as a celebration of resilience, excellence, and unwavering commitment demonstrated by schools and educators despite ongoing challenges within the education sector. He proudly highlighted that Newcastle CMC is currently ranked number 10 nationally out of 73 districts, reflecting the dedication and hard work invested by educators, principals, and learners throughout the circuit and district.

The ceremony recognised excellence across a wide range of categories including Co-Curricular Activities, National Teaching Awards, Special Schools, Mental Mathematics, Spelling Bee, EMS Quiz, Coding and Robotics, Reading for Meaning, Early Childhood Development Practitioner Awards, Subject Excellence Awards, Most Improved Schools, Highest Number of Progressed Learner Passes, Schools Performing Under Adverse Conditions, Highest Number of Bachelor Passes, Top Performing Schools, Primary Schools Producing Top Learners, as well as CES Special Awards.

Stakeholders and organised labour representatives also reaffirmed their commitment to supporting schools in delivering quality education, while encouraging institutions to make excellence a culture embedded in daily teaching and learning.

Venue: Mbuso Kubheka School of Engineering and Technology.
Date: 08 May 2026.

#KZNDOE #LeaveNoLearnerBehind #GrowingKwaZuluNatalTogether #AmajubaDistrict #EducationExcellence #NewcastleCMC #QualityEducation #TeachingAndLearning #AcademicExcellence

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education’s Umlazi District proudly hosted Day 1 of the ABC Motsepe South African Schools Choral Eisteddfod (SASCE) Music Festival 2026 at the Amanzimtoti Civic Hall on 11 May 2026.

The vibrant event brought together primary school learners from 21 schools across the district in a powerful celebration of music, culture, discipline, and artistic excellence. Learners captivated audiences with inspiring choral performances that showcased not only musical talent, but also unity, confidence, and social cohesion.
The SASCE programme continues to play a pivotal role in nurturing young talent, promoting cultural expression, and strengthening nation-building through the arts.

The enthusiasm and passion displayed by participating schools reflected the Department’s commitment to holistic education and learner development.

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education commends all learners, educators, conductors, adjudicators, and organisers for contributing to the success of this prestigious programme.

Venue: Amanzimtoti Civic Hall

Date: 11 May 2026.

#KZNDOE #SASCE2026 #ABCMotsepeSASCE #UmlaziDistrict #MusicExcellence #ArtsInEducation #BuildingTheNation #LearnerTalent #QualityEducation #GrowingFutureLeaders

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education has confirmed its full operational readiness for the administration of the May/June Examinations across the province.

Speaking during the MEC’s Media Briefing on the State of Readiness, the Department outlined the extensive logistical measures implemented to ensure the smooth, secure, and credible distribution of examination material.

The distribution of examination material will be coordinated through 13 storage points and 103 distribution and collection centres across KwaZulu-Natal. In preparation for the examinations, the province will print 99 question papers, amounting to a total of 8 076 000 printed copies.

These measures demonstrate the Department’s commitment to maintaining the integrity, efficiency, and credibility of the examination process while ensuring that all learners are afforded a fair opportunity to succeed.

#KZNDOE #StateOfReadiness #MayJuneExaminations #ExaminationReadiness #CredibleExaminations #QualityEducation #EducationInAction #GrowingFutureLeaders

“Our invigilators are fully trained, our question papers are secure, and we will not tolerate any form of examination malpractice.”

These were the firm assurances delivered during the MEC’s Media Briefing on the State of Readiness for the May/June Examinations. The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education remains committed to safeguarding the integrity, credibility, and smooth administration of examinations across the province.

Comprehensive measures have been put in place to ensure that all examination centres operate efficiently, securely, and in full compliance with examination regulations.

The Department wishes all learners well as they prepare to write their examinations.

Date: 11 May 2026.

#KZNDOE #StateOfReadiness #MayJuneExaminations #ExaminationIntegrity #QualityEducation #ZeroToleranceToMalpractice #CredibleExaminations #GrowingFutureLeaders

“We have worked hard as a Department to ensure that these examinations are conducted with the highest level of integrity, security, and fairness.”

This strong commitment was reaffirmed during the MEC’s Media Briefing on the State of Readiness for the May/June Examinations. The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education has implemented rigorous measures to safeguard the credibility of the examination process and ensure that all learners write under fair and secure conditions.

The Department remains resolute in upholding examination standards, protecting the integrity of assessment processes, and delivering examinations that are transparent, efficient, and free from irregularities.

#KZNDOE #StateOfReadiness #MayJuneExaminations #ExaminationIntegrity #SecureExaminations #FairnessInEducation #QualityEducation #GrowingFutureLeaders

The Honourable Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Mr Thami Ntuli, together with the MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, and the CEO of Vodacom South Africa, Mr Sitho Mdlalose, officially handed over a fully equipped computer laboratory to Asibemunye High School.

This milestone marks a significant advancement in the province’s drive to strengthen digital education and expand access to modern learning tools for learners.
The state-of-the-art facility is equipped with 40 computer devices and unlimited data connectivity, ensuring continuous and reliable access to digital learning resources that support teaching and learning.

A key feature of the laboratory is the installation of a virtual learning screen, introducing an innovative approach to education by enabling learners to connect with Schools of Excellence for specialised lessons and collaborative academic engagement.
This strategic investment reflects a shared commitment between government and the private sector to bridge the digital divide, enhance learner outcomes, and equip young people with the skills required to thrive in a rapidly evolving, technology-driven global economy.

Venue: Asibemunye High School.

Date: 06 May 2026.
#KZNDOE
#GrowingKwaZuluNatalTogether
#DigitalTransformation
#SmartEducation
#PrivatePublicPartnerships
#BridgingTheDigitalDivide
#FutureReadyLearners
#QualityEducation
#BuildingTheFutureTogether

The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, extends heartfelt congratulations to Kubuyakwezwe Primary School for its outstanding achievement in the implementation of the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP), academic excellence, and proudly representing the Province of KwaZulu-Natal at the 2025/2026 NSNP Best School and District Awards Ceremony hosted by the Department of Basic Education.

The school’s dedication to learner wellbeing, quality education, and excellence in the delivery of the NSNP continues to set a benchmark for schools across the province and the country. Through commitment, innovation, and hard work, Kubuyakwezwe Primary School has demonstrated that investing in learner nutrition and academic support contributes meaningfully towards improved learner performance and holistic development.

“Going the extra mile secures a healthier, stronger and brighter future for our learners,” said the KZN MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka.

This achievement reflects the collective efforts of educators, learners, parents, School Governing Bodies, and support staff who continue to advance quality education and learner support in KwaZulu-Natal.

Venue: Kubuyakwezwe Primary School.

Date: 12 May 2026.

#GrowingKwaZuluNatalTogether
#LeaveNoLearnerBehind
#NSNPAwards2026
#QualityEducation
#KZNDOE
#AcademicExcellence

IN PICTURES | The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education’s Newcastle CMC in the Amajuba District hosted a prestigious Excellence Awards Ceremony to recognise and celebrate exceptional performance, dedication, and commitment to quality education across schools within the circuit.

Venue: Mbuso Kubheka School of Engineering and Technology

Date: 08 May 2026.

#KZNDOE #LeaveNoLearnerBehind #GrowingKwaZuluNatalTogether #AmajubaDistrict #EducationExcellence #NewcastleCMC #QualityEducation #TeachingAndLearning #AcademicExcellence

IN PICTURES | The South African Schools Choral Eisteddfod (SASCE) for the uMgungundlovu District concluded successfully on 08 May 2026, marking the end of a vibrant and inspiring celebration of musical excellence, cultural expression and learner talent.

Hosted in partnership with the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, the championship brought together learners from various schools across the district who showcased exceptional choral performances, discipline and artistic creativity throughout the three-day programme.

The SASCE programme continues to play a significant role in promoting social cohesion, nation building and the holistic development of learners by providing a platform for artistic expression and talent development within schools.

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education extends its appreciation to educators, adjudicators, conductors, learners, parents and all stakeholders whose commitment contributed towards the success of the championship.

Venue: Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High School, uMgungundlovu District.

Date: 08 May 2026.

#KZNDOE
#SASCE2026
#GrowingKwaZuluNatalTogether
#ArtsInEducation
#SocialCohesion
#LearnerExcellence
#BuildingTheFutureTogether

That means no publisher names, no logos, and no author identities just pure focus on the merit of the material.

With over 150 subject experts involved, the goal is simple: fairness, quality, and the best possible resources for every South African learner. Check out the video for the full breakdown.

#Curriculum #TeachersOfSA #EducationNews #DBE


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WATCH | Ms Nosipho Mbonambi, Director for Strategic Planning and Reporting at the Department of Basic Education, addressed delegates on behalf of the Director-General of the Department of Basic Education during Day 1 of the KwaZulu-Natal Education Strategic Planning Session.

In her address, Ms Mbonambi highlighted that the current strategy under implementation requires continuous review and alignment to respond effectively to the evolving realities and operational challenges facing the education sector.

She further underscored the importance of annual strategic planning sessions as a critical mechanism for strengthening coordination, improving implementation, and ensuring that departmental priorities remain responsive and outcome-driven.

“We are pleased with the results attained by the Department of Education, notwithstanding the challenges faced by the Department,” remarked Ms Mbonambi.

The engagement forms part of broader efforts to enhance alignment between national and provincial education priorities in pursuit of improved service delivery and learner outcomes.

 Venue: Riverside Hotel, Durban.

 Date: 11 May 2026.

#KZNDOE
#DBE
#GrowingKwaZuluNatalTogether
#StrategicPlanning2026
#EducationTransformation
#QualityEducation
#PolicyAlignment
#BuildingTheFutureTogether

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1EVKsKjLKz/

WATCH | Ms M. Milne, Acting Deputy Director-General for Institutional Strategic Management in the Office of the Premier, delivered a presentation on provincial sector priorities during Day 1 of the KwaZulu-Natal Education Strategic Planning Session held in Durban.

In her address, Ms Milne emphasised that all departmental efforts must consistently reflect a strong commitment to the full implementation of the Medium Term Development Plan as government advances its strategic planning for the future.

She further underscored the importance of safeguarding schools and strengthening systems that promote equity, inclusion and social cohesion within the education sector, ensuring that all learners are supported in a safe and enabling learning environment.

The presentation formed part of broader discussions aimed at aligning provincial priorities with departmental strategic objectives to enhance service delivery and improve education outcomes across KwaZulu-Natal.

Venue: Riverside Hotel, Durban.

 Date: 11 May 2026.

#KZNDOE

#GrowingKwaZuluNatalTogether

#StrategicPlanning2026

#MediumTermDevelopmentPlan

#EquityInEducation

#SocialCohesion

#SchoolSafety

#QualityEducation

#BuildingTheFutureTogether

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WATCH | KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Honourable Thami Ntuli, has welcomed the donation of a fully equipped computer laboratory to Asibemunye High School, describing the initiative as a significant investment in the future of learners and the advancement of digital education within the province.

Addressing stakeholders during the official handover ceremony, Premier Ntuli emphasised the importance of creating equitable access to technology and educational opportunities for learners, particularly in communities historically disadvantaged by limited resources.

The Premier noted that interventions of this nature are critical in transforming the education landscape and dismantling the long-standing perception that a learner’s background determines their future success.

He further highlighted that South Africa continues to face a major skills mismatch, necessitating stronger collaboration between government, institutions of higher learning, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, labour unions and industry stakeholders to align education and training with the evolving demands of the labour market.

In response to these challenges, government has initiated a series of skills summits and strategic engagements across KwaZulu-Natal aimed at strengthening workforce readiness and promoting sustainable economic development.

The donated computer laboratory includes 40 computer devices, unlimited data connectivity and a virtual learning screen designed to facilitate collaboration with schools of excellence. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to bridge the digital divide and expand access to modern learning opportunities for learners across the province.

 Venue: Asibemunye High School.

Date: 06 May 2026.

#KZNDOE
#GrowingKwaZuluNatalTogether
#DigitalEducation
#SkillsDevelopment
#QualityEducation
#FutureReadyLearners
#BridgingTheDigitalDivide
#BuildingTheFutureTogether

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1AsrC2ReDK/

WATCH | CEO of Vodacom South Africa, Mr Sitho Mdlalose, has described the donation of a fully equipped computer laboratory to Asibemunye High School as a strategic investment in the future of the next generation.

Addressing stakeholders during the official handover ceremony, Mr Mdlalose encouraged learners to recognise their potential to compete on a global stage, emphasising that quality education should not be a privilege for a few, but a fundamental right accessible to all South Africans.

He further highlighted the importance of digital inclusion in preparing learners for a rapidly evolving world, where access to technology plays a critical role in shaping future career opportunities and economic participation.

In a significant additional commitment, Mr Mdlalose announced the donation of much-needed sanitation facilities to the school, reinforcing a broader commitment to dignity, improved learning conditions and the holistic development of the school community.

The initiative reflects a strong partnership between government and the private sector in advancing equitable access to quality education and supporting sustainable school infrastructure development.

 Venue: Asibemunye High School.

 Date: 06 May 2026.

#KZNDOE
#GrowingKwaZuluNatalTogether
#DigitalEducation
#PrivatePublicPartnerships
#QualityEducation
#SkillsDevelopment
#LearnerEmpowerment
#BuildingTheFutureTogether

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1EHPMtsY7s/

WATCH | CES for Newcastle CMC, Mr Zembethe Nkosi, delivered the purpose of the day during the 3rd Annual Newcastle CMC Excellence Awards Ceremony held in the Amajuba District.

Addressing educators, school leadership and invited guests, Mr Nkosi described the occasion as a celebration of hard work, commitment and resilience demonstrated by schools and educators in their continued pursuit of quality education.

He further emphasised that the awards ceremony was convened to recognise and honour schools, principals and educators who consistently strive for excellence in teaching, learning and school management.

The event highlighted the importance of acknowledging dedication within the education sector and reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to promoting a culture of excellence, accountability and improved learner outcomes across all schools.

 Venue: Mbuso Kubheka School of Engineering and Technology, Amajuba District.

 Date: 08 May 2026.

#KZNDOE
#GrowingKwaZuluNatalTogether
#EducationExcellence
#AcademicAchievement
#SchoolLeadership
#QualityEducation
#BuildingTheFutureTogether

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WATCH | The Newcastle Circuit Management Centre (CMC) proudly hosted its 3rd Annual CMC Excellence Awards Ceremony in recognition of schools, principals and educators who have consistently demonstrated dedication, resilience and commitment towards delivering quality education within the circuit.

The prestigious ceremony celebrated excellence in academic performance, effective school leadership and sustained efforts aimed at improving learner achievement across the Newcastle CMC.

The event also served as a platform to acknowledge the critical role played by educators and school management teams in strengthening teaching and learning, while advancing the Department’s vision of achieving educational excellence throughout the district.

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education commends all award recipients for their unwavering commitment to shaping future generations and contributing meaningfully towards the development of the education sector.

 Venue: Mbuso Kubheka School of Engineering and Technology, Amajuba District.

  Date: 08 May 2026.

#KZNDOE
#GrowingKwaZuluNatalTogether
#EducationExcellence
#AcademicAchievement
#SchoolLeadership
#QualityEducation
#BuildingTheFutureTogether

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On 07 May 2026, President Cyril Ramaphosa visited Hillside Aluminium to commemorate 30 years of production.

Over three decades, Hillside Aluminium has contributed significantly to job creation, strengthened both local and national economic growth, and supported improvements in infrastructure and services within surrounding communities.

The milestone event recognised the company’s longstanding role in industrial development and its impact on socio-economic advancement in South Africa.

The occasion further acknowledged the contribution of employees and stakeholders who have supported the growth and success of Hillside Aluminium over the years.

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa

#HillsideAluminium #30YearsOfProduction #PresidentialVisit #EconomicDevelopment #JobCreation #SouthAfrica #IndustrialGrowth

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WATCH | The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education's Head of Department for the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo, officially delivered the opening address at the commencement of the Department’s 2026 Strategic Planning Session currently underway in Durban.

The two-day engagement brings together senior management and departmental leadership to reflect on organisational performance, strengthen governance systems and align strategic priorities aimed at improving education outcomes across the province.

In his address, Mr Ngcobo reflected on the overall state of the Department, highlighting key milestones, measurable achievements and institutional progress recorded during the previous financial year despite ongoing fiscal constraints and operational pressures confronting the public sector.

The Head of Department further commended officials across all levels of the Department for their resilience, dedication and unwavering commitment to ensuring stability within the education system and advancing learner achievement under difficult conditions.

“You have performed a miracle by elevating KwaZulu-Natal to the highest position in the country for NSC results under immensely difficult austerity measures,” said Mr Ngcobo.

The Strategic Planning Session remains a critical platform for strengthening institutional collaboration, enhancing service delivery and consolidating responsive strategies that will contribute towards improved teaching and learning throughout KwaZulu-Natal.

Venue: Riverside Hotel, Durban.

Date: 11 May 2026.

#KZNDOE

#GrowingKwaZuluNatalTogether

#StrategicPlanning2026

#QualityEducation

#NSCResults

#LeadershipInEducation

#BuildingTheFutureTogether

BHEKA | Usefikile uNgqongqoshe woMnyango wezeMfundo esiFundazweni iKwaZulu-Natal, uMhlonishwa uSipho Hlomuka, ukuzokwengamela isithangami sokuhlelwa kwamasu soMnyango wezeMfundo.

​UNgqongqoshe wamukelwe ngelikhulu isasasa izikhulu zoMnyango, ikakhulukazi iNhloko yoMnyango, uMnu. Nkosinathi Ngcobo.

​Ukuhlelwa kwamasu konyaka ka-2026 kubaluleke kakhulu ukuze kuthuthukiswe ukufunda nokufundisa kulesi sifundazwe.

​Isihloko sakulonyaka okuhlelwa ngaphansi kwaso sithi: "Ukuqinisa ukubambisana kwezokuphatha kanye nezindlela zokuvumelana nezimo ukuze kuthuthukiswe imiphumela yokufunda nokufundisa."

​Lesi sihloko yiso esizoba yingqikithi yalesi sithangami esithanyelwe yizikhulu zoMnyango kanye nezicukuthwane ezinamava kwezeMfundo.

​Indawo: Ihhotela lase-Riverside.

Usuku: 11 kuNhlaba 2026.

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WATCH | KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, delivered a strategic and policy-driven address during the opening of Day 1 of the Department’s two-day Strategic Planning Session, reaffirming government’s commitment to strengthening education delivery and improving learner outcomes across the province.

The session, attended by senior departmental leadership and education stakeholders, serves as an important platform to assess institutional performance, align strategic priorities and enhance governance systems within the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education.

In his address, MEC Hlomuka underscored the importance of decisive leadership, institutional accountability and collaborative governance in driving the Department’s developmental mandate amid ongoing fiscal pressures affecting the public sector.

The MEC further extended his appreciation to the Head of Department, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo, together with the Department’s Deputy Directors-General, for their collective leadership and commitment in ensuring the successful hosting of the Strategic Planning Session despite prevailing financial constraints.

“We are pleased to convene and engage one another with the support of our stakeholders so that we may move forward decisively and deliver effectively on our constitutional mandate of providing quality education to the people of KwaZulu-Natal,” said MEC Hlomuka.

The Strategic Planning Session remains a critical governance platform aimed at strengthening operational efficiency, consolidating institutional priorities and accelerating targeted interventions to transform the education landscape throughout KwaZulu-Natal.

? Venue: Riverside Hotel, Durban.

?️ Date: 11 May 2026.

#KZNDOE

#GrowingKwaZuluNatalTogether

#StrategicPlanning2026

#QualityEducation

#LeadershipInEducation

#TransformingEducation

#BuildingTheFutureTogether

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Did you know? The Department of Basic Education uses a "blind screening" approach for textbooks. That means no publisher names, no logos, and no author identities just pure focus on the merit of the material.

​With over 150 subject experts involved, the goal is simple: fairness, quality, and the best possible resources for every South African learner. Check out the video for the full breakdown.

​#Curriculum #TeachersOfSA #EducationNews #DBE

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KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, is today attending a sitting of the Provincial Legislature at the main precinct as part of the Department’s continued commitment to accountability, responsive governance, and strengthening the delivery of quality education across the province.

The sitting provides an important platform for robust engagement on matters affecting the education sector and broader service delivery priorities aimed at improving the lives of the people of KwaZulu-Natal.

Venue: KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Legislature, Pietermaritzburg.

Date: 07 May 2026.

#GrowingKwaZuluNatalTogether
#KZNDOE
#LeaveNoLearnerBehind
#ProvincialLegislature
#EducationInAction

[WATCH] Excitement and school spirit filled the atmosphere as learners received overwhelming support and applause from the crowd during the uMgungundlovu District South African Schools Choral Eisteddfod currently taking place at Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High School.

The championship continues to showcase the remarkable talent, discipline and cultural excellence of learners, while promoting social cohesion, unity and nation building through music and the arts.

The Department remains committed to creating platforms that nurture creativity, confidence and artistic development among learners across the province.

Venue: Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High School, uMgungundlovu District.
Date: 07 May 2026.

#KZNDOE #SASCE2026 #GrowingKwaZuluNatalTogether #ArtsAndCulture #ChoralExcellence #SocialCohesion #uMgungundlovuDistrict #TeamEducationKZN

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The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, accompanied by Departmental Officials and School Principals, attended a high-level briefing ahead of the Provincial Recognition of Excellence: African Spelling Bee Reading celebration.

The occasion brought together the principals of Westville Primary School and Westville Boys’ High School, alongside educators and learners, in a collective show of pride and support. The highlight of the event was the recognition of Ashton Singh from Westville Boys’ High School, whose outstanding performance in the competition stands as a testament to dedication, discipline, and academic excellence.

His achievement underscores the province’s sustained commitment to strengthening literacy, fostering a culture of reading, and empowering learners to reach their full potential.

Venue: Westville Senior Primary School

Date: 05 May 2026

#KZNDOE #LiteracyExcellence #AfricanSpellingBee #EducationInAction #AcademicAchievement #GrowingFutureLeaders

[WATCH] The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, joined by the Honourable Premier, Mr Thami Ntuli, and Vodacom South Africa CEO, Mr Sitho Mdlalose, arrived at Asibemunye High School for the official handover of a fully equipped computer laboratory.

This significant investment, generously donated by Vodacom, marks a major step towards advancing digital learning and bridging the technological divide in schools. The initiative underscores a shared commitment between government and the private sector to empower learners with critical digital skills, enhance teaching and learning, and prepare young people for a technology-driven future.

The handover reinforces ongoing efforts to modernise education infrastructure and ensure equitable access to quality resources across all communities.

Venue: Asibemunye High School.

Date: 06 May 2026.

#KZNDOE #DigitalEducation #PublicPrivatePartnerships #FutureReady #ICTinEducation #GrowingKwaZuluNatalTogether

WATCH | Acting Chief Director for Curriculum Development Programmes, Mr Sikhumbuzo Manganye, delivered inspiring remarks during his visit to Westville Senior Primary School as the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education honoured African Spelling Bee champion, Ashton Singh.

Mr Manganye commended Ashton’s outstanding achievement and recognised his selection to represent South Africa at an upcoming international competition in China as a proud moment for the province and the country. He emphasised the importance of sustained learner support, strong curriculum delivery, and creating platforms that enable learners to excel beyond borders.

The engagement reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to nurturing talent, promoting academic excellence, and positioning learners to compete on global stages.

Venue: Westville Senior Primary School

Date: 05 May 2026.

#KZNDOE #AfricanSpellingBee #ExcellenceInEducation #CurriculumDevelopment #LearnerAchievement #FutureLeaders #GlobalExcellence #ProudlyKZN

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The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education (KZNDOE), Pinetown District, hosted a prestigious Provincial Recognition of Excellence ceremony celebrating African Spelling Bee champion, Ashton Singh, a former learner of Westville Senior Primary School.

Programme Director and Chief Director for Curriculum Development Programmes, Mr Skhumbuzo Manganye, welcomed all attendees and emphasised the importance of nurturing every child to ensure they reach their full potential. He highlighted Ashton Singh’s achievement as evidence of excellence unlocked through dedicated support and opportunity.

The Principal of Westville Senior Primary School, Ms Heidi Heather-Clark, congratulated Ashton on his outstanding success and expressed gratitude to all stakeholders who continue to make such milestones possible through collaboration and commitment.

Pinetown District Director, Ms Sibongile Nkosi-Tembe, expressed immense pride in Ashton Singh’s achievement and extended appreciation to the African Spelling Bee and partners such as Better Africa. She reaffirmed the importance of continued collaboration in advancing learner performance and encouraging a culture of excellence across the district.

Stakeholders were further acknowledged for their ongoing support, with emphasis placed on strengthening partnerships that empower learners and promote academic growth. Schools were commended for their dedication, with a call to expand this spirit of excellence across the district and beyond.

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Hon Sipho Hlomuka, stated that success is built on hard work, consistency, and perseverance. He noted that this achievement is not only a provincial milestone but a source of national pride, extending across South Africa and beyond its borders. Learners were encouraged to embrace opportunities, remain visible, and make full use of platforms that open pathways to future success.

He further reminded young people that they carry the dreams of the nation, and that these dreams are valid and achievable.

Ashton Singh reflected on his personal journey, noting that even his own family could not have foreseen such recognition, but his achievement stands as proof that dedication and belief make anything possible. He expressed excitement about representing South Africa in China and reaffirmed his commitment to continued excellence.

African Spelling Bee CEO, Mr Rodger Dickinson, highlighted the programme’s growth from a small initiative into a meaningful national platform. He acknowledged the critical role of leadership, mentorship, and support systems, particularly the influence of women and mentors in shaping learner success. He reaffirmed that behind every successful learner is a strong support structure.

Ashton Singh concluded by expressing his commitment to achieving greater heights in life and his pride in representing South Africa on the international stage.

Venue: Westville Senior Primary School, Pinetown District.

Date: 05 May 2026.

#KZNDOE #AfricanSpellingBee #ExcellenceInEducation #LearnerAchievement #AcademicExcellence #FutureLeaders #PinetownDistrict #ProudlySouthAfrican

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, through its Provincial Recognition of Excellence programme for the African Spelling Bee Reading Competitions, continues to celebrate outstanding learner achievement.

WATCH | The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, reflected on the remarkable success of Ashton Singh, emphasising that true achievement is built on hard work, dedication, and perseverance. He noted that this milestone represents not only individual excellence, but also a moment of pride for South Africa as a whole.

“As we honour this achievement, learners are encouraged to embrace every opportunity presented to them, to remain disciplined, and to strive relentlessly towards excellence in their academic journeys,” remarked MEC Hlomuka.

This recognition reinforces the Department’s ongoing commitment to nurturing talent, promoting academic excellence, and inspiring learners to reach their full potential.

Venue: Westville Senior Primary School.

Date: 05 May 2026.

#KZNDOE #AfricanSpellingBee #ExcellenceInEducation #LearnerAchievement #AcademicExcellence #FutureLeaders #ProudlyKZN

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The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education proudly hosts the Provincial Recognition of Excellence for the African Spelling Bee and Reading Competitions at Westville Senior Primary School.

[WATCH] Principal Ms Heidi Heather reflects on the rich history of the institution, highlighting its longstanding tradition of academic excellence and its journey toward a remarkable milestone—70 years of shaping young minds in 2027. Her insights underscore the school’s commitment to literacy development and holistic education.

This occasion not only honours outstanding learner achievement but also celebrates the pivotal role schools play in nurturing a culture of reading, critical thinking, and lifelong learning.

Venue: Westville Senior Primary School.

Date: 05 May 2026.

#KZNDOE #SpellingBeeExcellence #ReadingMatters #AcademicAchievement #70YearsOfExcellence #GrowingFutureLeaders

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The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education proudly marks the opening of Day One of the uMgungundlovu District SASCE Championship, hosted at Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High School on 06 May 2026.

This prestigious platform brings together Foundation Phase learners from across the district, celebrating their musical talent, discipline, and commitment to choral excellence. The championship not only showcases young voices in harmony but also reinforces the Department’s commitment to holistic education through arts and culture.

We extend our best wishes to all participating schools, conductors, and learners as they take to the stage to demonstrate their passion and dedication.

Venue: Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High School

Date: 06 May 2026

#KZNDOE #SASCE2026 #ChoralExcellence #uMgungundlovuDistrict #ArtsInEducation #FoundationPhase #EducationExcellence

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The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, has arrived at Westville Senior Primary School to officiate the Provincial Recognition of Excellence event for the African Spelling Bee Reading Competition.

The event celebrates the outstanding achievements of learners who have demonstrated excellence in spelling and reading, reinforcing the Department’s commitment to strengthening literacy and promoting academic success across the province.

Venue: Westville Senior Primary School.

Date: 05 May 2026.

#KZNDOE #AfricanSpellingBee #LiteracyExcellence #EducationMatters #BuildingFutureLeaders

WATCH | The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, arrives at Westville Senior Primary School to officiate the Provincial Recognition of Excellence ceremony for the African Spelling BEE Reading Competition.

This prestigious event recognises outstanding learners who have demonstrated exceptional proficiency in reading, spelling, and language development. It reflects the Department’s ongoing commitment to strengthening foundational literacy and nurturing a culture of academic excellence across the province.

The ceremony not only celebrates learner achievement but also acknowledges the vital role played by educators, parents, and stakeholders in advancing reading as a cornerstone of quality education.

Venue: Westville Senior Primary School.

Date: 05 May 2026.

#KZNDOE #AfricanSpellingBee #LiteracyExcellence #EducationMatters #GrowingFutureLeaders

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The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, in collaboration with the Office of the Premier (OTP) and the Department of Public Works (DOPW), convened a high-level Immovable Asset Management Meeting at Dokkies on 04 May 2026.

Co-chaired by Acting Chief Director for DOPW, Ms Xoli Ntanzi, and KZN DOE DDG for Corporate Services, Advocate M.B. Masuku, the engagement focused on the strategic future of the Dokkies building. Key discussions included the proposed reallocation of the facility, analysis of current domestic service costs, and critical maintenance matters raised by eThekwini Municipality.

The meeting underscored the importance of clearly defined cost-sharing responsibilities and reinforced a commitment to cost-containment measures in the management of immovable assets. Stakeholders reaffirmed the building’s shared utilisation model to optimise value and ensure long-term sustainability.

Future-oriented planning also highlighted the proposed establishment of a Teacher Development Institute, signalling a progressive step toward strengthening educator capacity within the province.

The session concluded with a unified commitment to finalising a resource-sharing framework, addressing Occupational Health and Safety compliance, and advancing a coordinated provincial approach to infrastructure management.

Venue: Dokkies.

Date: 04 May 2026.

#KZNDOE #GoodGovernance #AssetManagement #BuildingForTheFuture #PublicServiceExcellence

At Nkwambazi Primary School in the Zululand District, education has evolved into a dynamic model of sustainability, innovation, and community empowerment. Guided by the visionary leadership of Principal Zakhele Selby Xulu, the school has successfully redefined the concept of a “full-service” institution by integrating agriculture into its core developmental strategy.

Exemplifying servant leadership, Principal Xulu took a hands-on approach by joining construction efforts to ensure the successful completion of the school’s micro-nursery during critical labour shortages. This commitment reflects a leadership ethos rooted in action, accountability, and shared purpose.

Through a strategic 12-month partnership with Fortress REI, the school has embedded permaculture and agro-ecology into its operational framework—equipping learners with practical skills while advancing sustainable food production. The initiative is a powerful demonstration of the Quality Learning and Teaching Campaign (QLTC) in action, strengthened by meaningful community collaboration. Local stakeholder Mr. Kunene’s contribution of donkey power to expand the gardens highlights the collective effort driving the project’s success.

Today, Nkwambazi Primary stands as a beacon of integrated development, supported by a reliable borehole system and a thriving nursery producing over 2,600 seedlings per cycle. Beyond supporting nutrition programmes, the school is playing a pivotal role in strengthening local food security and fostering self-reliance within the community.

Venue: Nkwambazi Primary School, Zululand District, KwaZulu-Natal.

Date: 29 April 2026.

#KZNEducation #QLTC #NkwambaziPrimary #ZululandDistrict #FullServiceSchool #SustainableEducation #FoodSecurity #BuildingTheNation

WATCH | KwaZulu-Natal concluded the SA Schools Swimming Championships 2026 with distinction, achieving an impressive 3rd-place overall finish following days of consistent, disciplined, and high-performance competition.

Team KZN delivered a remarkable medal haul of 123 medals, underscoring the province’s strength in school sport. The final day alone yielded 25 medals, reflecting sustained excellence, resilience, and unity in the pool. From record-breaking swims to commanding podium finishes, the team showcased the calibre of talent emerging from KwaZulu-Natal.

As the championships draw to a close, KwaZulu-Natal departs with pride and renewed determination—stronger, inspired, and poised to reach even greater heights on the national stage.

Venue: University of the Western Cape.

Date: 27 April 2026.

#SASchoolsSwimming #KZNExcellence #SchoolSportSuccess #FutureChampions #TeamKZN #BuildingTheNation

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WATCH | KwaZulu-Natal concluded the SA Schools Swimming Championships 2026 with distinction, achieving an impressive 3rd-place overall finish following days of consistent, disciplined, and high-performance competition.

Team KZN delivered a remarkable medal haul of 123 medals, underscoring the province’s strength in school sport. The final day alone yielded 25 medals, reflecting sustained excellence, resilience, and unity in the pool. From record-breaking swims to commanding podium finishes, the team showcased the calibre of talent emerging from KwaZulu-Natal.

As the championships draw to a close, KwaZulu-Natal departs with pride and renewed determination—stronger, inspired, and poised to reach even greater heights on the national stage.

Venue: University of the Western Cape.

Date: 27 April 2026.

#SASchoolsSwimming #KZNExcellence #SchoolSportSuccess #FutureChampions #TeamKZN #BuildingTheNation

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WATCH | Day 2 of the National Schools Athletics Championships delivered heightened competition and exceptional athleticism at Pilditch Stadium in Pretoria, as learners from all nine provinces elevated their performances across both track and field events.

With determination evident in every race and discipline, the championships continue to reflect the strength, depth, and unity of school sport in South Africa. Athletes are pushing boundaries and setting new benchmarks as the contest intensifies.

As momentum builds, attention now turns to the finals, where the country’s top young athletes will compete in the ultimate test of excellence, resilience, and national pride.

Venue: Pilditch Stadium, Pretoria.

Date: 01 May 2026.

#NationalSchoolsAthletics #SchoolSportExcellence #FutureChampions #TeamSouthAfrica #BuildingTheNation #AthleticsSA

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The final day of the National Schools Athletics Championships delivered a compelling showcase of resilience, excellence, and competitive spirit at Pilditch Stadium in Pretoria. In a high-stakes “survival of the fittest” finale, athletes from across the country rose to the occasion, producing performances of exceptional calibre.

KwaZulu-Natal athletes distinguished themselves with commendable results, securing a total of 16 medals and a trophy. Leading the charge was Sarah Reed, whose outstanding double gold in the 100m and 200m earned her top honours and the prestigious black blazer as Best Athlete.

In the LSEN category, the Western Cape demonstrated dominance, with Stanley Afrika securing victory in the girls’ division, while Zandri Adams led the boys’ events. The mainstream competition reflected depth across provinces, with Free State, Gauteng, and the Western Cape delivering standout performances in both junior and senior divisions. Field events further highlighted elite talent, with Gauteng excelling in the long jump and the Western Cape impressing in the high jump.

KwaZulu-Natal celebrated multiple podium finishes, including:

• Anele Hadebe (5000m Walk – Bronze)
• Amahle Mzimba (5000m Walk – Silver)
• Sanele Masango (5000m Walk – Bronze)
• Swedish Relay Girls U15 (Bronze)
• Anele Mntungwa (5000m – Bronze)
• Girls U15 4x100m Relay (Silver)
• Aphelele Khanyile (200m LSEN – Silver)
• Xavior Fynn (800m LSEN – Gold)

Overall standings reflected a fiercely contested championship, with the Western Cape leading the medal tally, followed by Gauteng and Mpumalanga. KwaZulu-Natal secured a strong position among the top-performing provinces across both LSEN and mainstream categories.

As the 2026 championships draw to a close, athletes depart with pride, strengthened resolve, and lasting inspiration—having showcased the very best of school sport in South Africa.

Venue: Pilditch Stadium, Pretoria.

Date: 02 May 2026.

#NationalSchoolsAthletics #SchoolSportExcellence #KZNExcellence #FutureChampions #TeamSouthAfrica #BuildingTheNation

IN PICTURES | The final day of the National Schools Athletics Championships brought Gauteng to life with a powerful display of resilience, discipline, and peak performance at Pilditch Stadium in Pretoria. In a true “survival of the fittest” contest, young athletes rose to the occasion, delivering electrifying performances that underscored the depth of talent across South Africa’s school sport landscape.

As the curtain falls on the 2026 championships, participants leave not only with medals and accolades, but with strengthened character, renewed inspiration, and a shared pride in representing their provinces on a national stage. The event stands as a testament to the enduring value of school sport in shaping future champions and responsible citizens.

Venue: Pilditch Stadium, Pretoria.

Date: 02 May 2026.

#NationalSchoolsAthletics #SchoolSportExcellence #FutureChampions #TeamSouthAfrica #BuildingTheNation

The National Schools Athletics Championships were officially declared open on 29 April 2026 at Pilditch Stadium, ushering in a dynamic week of competition and celebration of youth athletic talent from across South Africa.

The vibrant opening ceremony brought together athletes, coaches, and supporters in a powerful display of unity, discipline, and sporting excellence. Delivering the keynote address, Dr Regina Mhaule inspired learners to remain focused, believe in their potential, and strive for excellence both on and off the field.

Echoing this message, Berry Hendricks underscored the critical role of perseverance, self-belief, and parental support in nurturing future champions.

As the championships unfold, the event stands as a testament to the transformative power of school sport in building character, resilience, and national pride.

Venue: Pilditch Stadium.

Date: 29 April 2026.

#SchoolSportExcellence #NSAC2026 #GrowingChampions #TeamSouthAfrica #YouthInSport #DisciplineAndDedication #BuildingTheFuture

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The National Schools Athletics Championships were officially declared open on 29 April 2026 at Pilditch Stadium, ushering in a dynamic week of competition and celebration of youth athletic talent from across South Africa.

The vibrant opening ceremony brought together athletes, coaches, and supporters in a powerful display of unity, discipline, and sporting excellence.

Delivering the keynote address was the Deputy Minister of Basic Education, Dr Regina Mhaule who inspired learners to remain focused, believe in their potential, and strive for excellence both on and off the field.

Echoing this message, Berry Hendricks underscored the critical role of perseverance, self-belief, and parental support in nurturing future champions.

As the championships unfold, the event stands as a testament to the transformative power of school sport in building character, resilience, and national pride.

Venue: Pilditch Stadium.

Date: 29 April 2026.

#SchoolSportExcellence #NSAC2026 #GrowingChampions #TeamSouthAfrica #YouthInSport #DisciplineAndDedication #BuildingTheFuture

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, in partnership with VVOB Education for Development, extends its sincere appreciation to the EGRT DTTS for your active participation and ongoing commitment to strengthening Early Grade Reading Instruction (EGRI).

Your contributions play a critical role in enhancing isiZulu literacy outcomes for learners in Grades R–3 through focused teacher development and structured support.

Kindly note: The deadline for submission of your implementation plans is 30 April 2026.

Plans should be shared with: Zanele.Shabalala@vvob.org

Together, we continue to build strong foundations for lifelong learning.

Date: 28 April 2026

#EGRI #EarlyGradeReading #KZNeducation #TeacherDevelopment #LiteracyMatters #BuildingFoundations

To access today’s lesson click on the link below for the full experience.

Platform: MS Teams

https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/6b33ed9f-fc93-4b0a-a295-bbc94402362e@3d1917b6-769b-4b4a-99be-79e2e25c88f4

As part of the OSS/DDM Cabinet Day held on 22 April 2026 under Operation Sukuma Sakhe, the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, led a high-level oversight visit to Ward 7 in the Amajuba District, reinforcing government’s commitment to integrated service delivery and responsive governance. The MEC was accompanied by HOD Champion, Dr Vish Govender.

The programme commenced at Sgodiphola Primary School, where a comprehensive War Room report was presented by Ward Councillor Mr Ndebele, outlining key service delivery challenges and progress within the community. The delegation proceeded to Izazi Secondary School in Newcastle, where significant progress is being made on a major infrastructure upgrade project implemented by COEGA and executed by Rods Construction.

This catalytic development forms part of Operation Siyahlola Project 2 and represents a strategic investment in transforming the education landscape. The project is designed to deliver a modern, future-ready learning environment while simultaneously advancing local economic development. To date, 35 job opportunities have been created, directly benefiting the surrounding community.

The scope of the project includes the construction of 30 standard classrooms, specialised learning facilities such as multi-purpose rooms, a computer centre and a team teaching space, as well as a fully equipped administration block. Additional provisions include learner support amenities, sports infrastructure comprising a combo court and full-size soccer field, and essential supporting infrastructure.

While substantial progress has been achieved, the project is currently experiencing delays due to outstanding payments, impacting contractor cash flow and construction timelines. Government is actively addressing these challenges through the submission of an Extension of Time (EoT) with cost implications and ongoing engagements to expedite payment processes and restore project momentum.

The day’s activities concluded at Bergsig Sports Ground, where the main community engagement reaffirmed government’s resolve to strengthen coordinated service delivery, unblock implementation challenges, and ensure that infrastructure investments translate into tangible improvements in the lives of citizens.

Venues: Sgodiphola Primary School; Bergsig Sports Ground.

Date: 22 April 2026.

#OperationSukumaSakhe #OperationSiyahlola #DDMCabinetDay #AmajubaDistrict #ServiceDelivery #EducationInfrastructure #BuildingTheFuture #KZNEducation #GovernmentAtWork #BetterCommunities

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education hereby confirms that 28, 29, and 30 April 2026 are designated normal academic school days as per the approved 2026 Public School Calendar.

All learners, educators, and school staff are expected to report for full attendance at their respective institutions during this period.

Parents and guardians are strongly advised to disregard any unverified or misleading information suggesting otherwise. The Department remains committed to ensuring continuity in teaching and learning without disruption.

Let us collectively uphold discipline, consistency, and academic progress by adhering strictly to the official school calendar.

#KZNDOE #EducationMatters #SchoolAttendance #ClassOf2026 #StayInformed #ProtectLearning

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The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education has officially launched the Grade 12 Virtual Tuition Programme 2026 at Anton Lembede MST Academy, marking a significant milestone in the province’s drive to expand equitable access to quality education through innovation and technology.

The Deputy Director-General for Curriculum Management and Delivery, Mr Mbongiseni Mazibuko, welcomed stakeholders and outlined the strategic intent of the programme. He emphasised its targeted focus on supporting second-chance matric candidates preparing for the May/June examinations, leveraging digital platforms to enhance accessibility, flexibility, and academic performance.
Host principal, Mr Dumisani Sibaya, introduced the team of educators who will deliver the virtual lessons and underscored the Academy’s role as a central broadcast hub for the province-wide initiative.

A live demonstration by Mr Samkelo Ntuli provided insight into the programme’s operational model, showcasing the virtual classroom environment, broadcasting infrastructure, and digital tools designed to facilitate both live and recorded lessons.
The Head of Department, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo, reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to integrating ICT in education as a catalyst for improved learning outcomes. He highlighted that while technology serves as an enabler, it does not replace the critical role of educators. The programme, he noted, is a strategic intervention to address resource disparities by extending high-quality teaching to under-resourced schools through shared digital platforms.

Learners will be able to access lessons via smartphones and other digital devices, allowing for real-time participation, on-demand revision, and strengthened subject mastery in key areas such as Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, English Home Language, and History.

To support implementation and ensure seamless communication, KZN Circular No. 40 of 2026, along with QR code access links and digital notices, will be disseminated to schools, parents, and stakeholders.

This initiative reinforces the Department’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and improved learner outcomes across KwaZulu-Natal.

Venue: Anton Lembede MST Academy.

Date: 17 April 2026.

#KZNEducation #VirtualTuition2026 #DigitalLearning #MatricSupport #SecondChanceMatric #ICTinEducation #EducationInnovation #LeaveNoLearnerBehind

Watch | Arrival of the Head of Department, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo, at the Grade 12 Virtual Tuition Programme 2026 Launch

The Head of Department for the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo, arrived at Anton Lembede MST Academy to attend the official launch of the Grade 12 Virtual Tuition Programme 2026—marking the commencement of a key provincial intervention to enhance learner support.

The programme represents a strategic shift towards the integration of digital learning platforms to strengthen academic performance in critical subjects, while expanding equitable access to quality education for Grade 12 learners across KwaZulu-Natal.

The launch has brought together learners, senior education officials, and school leadership, reflecting a unified and coordinated provincial commitment to improving teaching and learning outcomes through innovation and collaboration.

Venue: Anton Lembede MST Academy.

Date: 17 April 2026.

#KZNEducation #LeadershipInAction #VirtualTuition2026 #DigitalLearning #ICTinEducation #MatricSupport #EducationExcellence #LeaveNoLearnerBehind

Watch | Demonstration of the Grade 12 Virtual Tuition Programme 2026 at Anton Lembede MST Academy
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education showcased the operational rollout of the Grade 12 Virtual Tuition Programme 2026 through a live demonstration, providing stakeholders with a comprehensive view of how the initiative will be implemented to support learners across the province.

The Principal of Anton Lembede MST Academy, Mr Dumisani Sibaya, introduced the team of educators tasked with delivering the virtual lessons, highlighting their central role in ensuring quality curriculum delivery and sustained learner support.

The session demonstrated the programme’s state of readiness, with a focus on the virtual classroom environment, including broadcasting infrastructure, digital platforms, and integrated systems used to deliver both live and recorded lessons, while enabling meaningful learner interaction.

Educator Mr Samkelo Ntuli led the practical demonstration, offering a step-by-step illustration of how lessons will be delivered in real time. The session highlighted key components of effective virtual teaching, including structured lesson delivery, learner engagement, and the use of digital tools to enhance understanding and participation.
This demonstration reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to leveraging ICT as a strategic enabler to expand access to quality education, improve learner outcomes, and ensure inclusive learning opportunities in an increasingly digital environment.

Venue: Anton Lembede MST Academy.

Date: 17 April 2026.

#KZNEducation #DigitalEducation #VirtualTuition2026 #ICTinEducation #MatricSupport #BlendedLearning #EducationInnovation #LeaveNoLearnerBehind

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WATCH | Head of Department, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo, officially launches and announces the Grade 12 Virtual Tuition Programme 2026
The Head of Department for the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo, has officially announced and declared the launch of the Grade 12 Virtual Tuition Programme 2026 at Anton Lembede MST Academy, marking a strategic step in strengthening support for second-chance matric candidates.

In his address, Mr Ngcobo highlighted that the programme will be broadcast from the Academy as a central hub, leveraging ICT to enhance teaching and learning while preserving the essential role of educators. He emphasised the importance of transforming the use of smartphones into productive academic tools, enabling learners to access both live and recorded lessons عبر multiple digital platforms, including YouTube.

The programme is designed to provide flexibility and continuous support, allowing learners to revisit lessons at their own pace—particularly beneficial for those who may miss live sessions or require additional revision.

Focusing on critical subjects such as Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, English Home Language, and History, the initiative integrates virtual laboratories, simulations, and digital learning tools to deepen conceptual understanding and improve learner performance.

Mr Ngcobo further announced that KZN Circular No. 40 of 2026, together with digital notices and QR code access links, will be distributed to ensure seamless communication with schools, parents, and educators. These QR codes will facilitate easy access to lessons via smart devices, even with limited data, promoting broader and more equitable participation.

He concluded by underscoring the programme as a collaborative and innovative intervention aimed at improving learner outcomes and expanding access to quality education across KwaZulu-Natal.

Venue: Anton Lembede MST Academy.

Date: 17 April 2026.

#KZNEducation #SecondChanceSuccess #VirtualTuition2026 #DigitalLearning #ICTinEducation #MatricSupport #EducationInnovation #LeaveNoLearnerBehind

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The Director-General of the Department of Basic Education, Mr. Mathanzima Mweli was officially welcomed to uThukela District today by District Director Ms. Poppy Mokoena and the District Management Committee. This visit to uThukela District marks the final stop of his provincial monitoring tour, focusing on driving purposeful action to strengthen learner support.

The session featured detailed performance and progress reports delivered by key district officials who provided comprehensive overviews of their specific areas of responsibility. Ms. Poppy Mokoena, in her capacity as District Director, presented on the Foundation Phase, while Mr. Mduduzi Zwane, the CES for Curriculum GET, delivered the report for the Intermediate Phase. The reporting continued with Ms. Fikile Mlotshwa, Acting CES for Exams and Assessments, covering the Senior Phase, and Ms. Phindile Ngwenya, Acting CES for Teaching and Learning Services, concluding with the FET Phase.

Supported by Ms. Mataole Ramohapi, Director for Intergovernmental and Technical Support, the engagement centred on accountability and the critical role of dedicated service in achieving provincial educational goals.

In his address, Mr. Mweli commended the team for their shared commitment to uplifting communities. He urged officials to lead with passion and integrity, noting that purposeful action enhances both professional impact and personal fulfilment. This final engagement ensures that all phases of learning in uThukela District are firmly aligned with the national pursuit of education excellence.

Venue: Estcourt High School, uThukela District.

Date: 16 April 2026.

#DBEMonitoringVisit #uThukelaDistrict #LearnerSupport #EducationExcellence #KZNEducation #FinalStop

The Director-General of the Department of Basic Education, Mr Mathanzima Mweli, met with Grade 12 learners from schools within the Wembezi Circuit, including Estcourt High School, Estcourt Secondary School and Drakensberg Secondary School.
The Director-General appreciated the opportunity to address the Class of 2026, together with principals and educators, acknowledging the long journey learners have travelled, particularly navigating the challenges brought about by COVID-19. He encouraged learners to remain focused, reminding them that the sky is the limit.

In his address, the Director-General shared key principles for academic success:

1. Attend school every day, be in class on time, and remain consistent. These are universal principles for success.

2. Pay attention in class, listen attentively to teachers, and actively observe and engage in lessons.

3. Follow a structured personal study timetable. Study at least two subjects per day for a minimum of six hours. Dedicate time to reading and understanding content, and use the remaining time to practise answering questions independently using previous question papers. Use memorandums to assess and improve your responses, as practice strengthens performance.

4. Utilise all available study materials, including textbooks, study guides, teacher handouts, previous question papers and memorandums, and digital platforms such as YouTube. Make your own notes to enhance understanding and retention.

He further encouraged learners to support one another, emphasising the importance of unity, discipline, and accountability: “Be your brother’s and sister’s keeper. Protect and support each other, ensure that no one is left behind, and work together towards success.”

Venue: Estcourt High School, uThukela District

Date: 16 April 2026

#KZNEducation #DBEMonitoringVisit #uThukelaDistrict #LearnerSupport #EducationExcellence

The Department of Basic Education, under the leadership of Director-General Mr. Mathanzima Mweli, conducted a focused monitoring and support visit to the Pinetown District on 15 April 2026. The engagement formed part of ongoing national efforts to strengthen curriculum delivery, enhance learner support, and reinforce accountability across all levels of the education system.

Accompanied by Ms. Mataole Ramohapi, Director: Intergovernmental and Technical Support, and Ms. Sibongile Nkosi-Tembe, Pinetown District Director, the delegation engaged district officials and school leadership at Hillcrest High School. The session set a clear tone for purposeful service, with an emphasis on commitment, integrity, and collective responsibility in advancing learner outcomes.

Addressing officials, the Director-General underscored the importance of accountability as a cornerstone of effective education delivery. He highlighted that clearly defined roles—from educators and Heads of Department to School Management Teams and district leadership—are essential for ensuring consistency and quality in curriculum implementation.

A comprehensive district performance overview was presented, outlining progress, systemic challenges, and targeted interventions across all phases, including ECD, GET, and FET. Particular attention was given to strengthening foundational learning, with a focus on improving language proficiency in the early grades to support long-term academic success.

Ms. Ramohapi emphasised the importance of balanced learner support, urging schools to prioritise both progressed learners and high achievers. She further encouraged innovation in subject offerings, including the introduction of specialised subjects aligned with emerging opportunities, while reinforcing the district’s commitment to achieving top-tier performance.

The Director-General also directly engaged 1,597 Grade 12 learners across the district, delivering a motivational address centred on discipline, resilience, and goal-setting. Learners were encouraged to adopt the “Five Nuggets” for Academic Achievement:

• Consistent attendance and punctuality
• Active participation in lessons
• Effective and structured study habits
• Discipline and sustained effort
• Goal-setting with personal accountability
He reaffirmed that achieving a 100% pass rate requires daily commitment, focus, and ownership of one’s academic journey.

School visits were conducted across multiple institutions, including Hillcrest High School, Khabazela Secondary School, Westmead Secondary School, Isizinda Secondary School, Mariannridge Secondary School, Dassenbrook Secondary School, Nilgiri Secondary School, Ntee Secondary School, and Ndengetho Secondary School, reinforcing the Department’s hands-on approach to monitoring and support.

This strategic visit reflects the Department’s continued commitment to strengthening systems, empowering educators, and ensuring that every learner is positioned for success.

District: Pinetown District.

Date: 15 April 2026.

#DBEMonitoringVisit #EducationExcellence #LearnerSupport #CurriculumDelivery #FoundationPhase #Matric2026 #AcademicAchievement #QualityEducation #KZNEducation #LeadershipInAction #BuildingFutures #100PercentPassRate #PinetownDistrict

Watch | The Deputy Director-General for Curriculum Management and Delivery, Mr Mbongiseni Mazibuko, outlines the strategic intent of the Grade 12 Virtual Tuition Programme 2026 during its official launch at Anton Lembede MST Academy today.

The programme is purpose-built to support second-chance matric learners preparing for the May/June National Senior Certificate examinations. It delivers structured, curriculum-aligned academic support through digital learning platforms, enabling learners to consolidate key concepts, close learning gaps, and enhance overall performance.

This initiative underscores the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education’s commitment to equitable access and inclusive education—ensuring that every learner is afforded a meaningful opportunity to attain the National Senior Certificate and progress towards future pathways.

Venue: Anton Lembede MST Academy.

Date: 17 April 2026.

#KZNDOE #VirtualTuition2026 #SecondChanceMatric #InclusiveEducation #NSCExams #EducationForAll #LeaveNoLearnerBehind

https://youtu.be/ur3mY5UBiNQ?si=wpnwSkhNhXF1OM3w

[WATCH] The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, under the Amajuba District, proudly celebrates the outstanding achievement of the Dannhauser CMC.

The Centre has been widely applauded for its critical role in strengthening performance and accelerating Amajuba District’s upward trajectory in provincial rankings. The awards ceremony recognised excellence, dedication, and collaborative leadership in advancing quality teaching and learning.

This achievement reflects a sustained commitment to improving educational outcomes and positioning the district as a strong contributor to provincial success.

Venue: Farmers Hall, Amajuba District
Date: 16 April 2026

#AmajubaDistrict #DannhauserCMC #EducationExcellence #KZNEducation #NSC2026 #LearnerSuccess #TeachingAndLearning

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/14bBtNS8HLL/

WATCH | The Deputy Director-General for Curriculum Management and Delivery, Mr Mbongiseni Mazibuko, outlines the purpose of the meeting and provides an overview of the “Second Chance” programme, designed to support Matriculants.

The meeting serves to review a comprehensive checklist in preparation for the official launch of the Virtual Tuition Programme.

Venue: Anton Lembede MST Academy.

Date: 16 April 2026.

#VirtualTuition2026 #FullyChargedForSuccess #SecondChanceProgramme #MatricSupport #CurriculumDelivery #EducationInnovation #LearnerSuccess #KZNEducation

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1JXx8TAeLE/

WATCH| The prestigious Dannhauser CMC Awards Ceremony has commenced at Farmers Hall.

Venue: Farmers Hall, Amajuba District.

Date: 16 April 2026.

#DannhauserCMC #AmajubaDistrict #AwardsCeremony

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/18NvU9p3aY/

[WATCH] The Director-General for Basic Education, Mr Mathanzima Mweli, engaged and motivated learners under the uMlazi District, reinforcing a strong culture of academic excellence and high expectations.

Following a productive start to the week in the King Cetshwayo District, Mr Mweli extended his oversight to uMlazi, where he interacted with approximately 1,500 learners from more than 10 schools. He commended education officials for their dedicated support to teachers and learners, ensuring strengthened teaching and learning delivery across the district.

The Director-General further praised learners for their commitment and determination to achieve improved results, reflected in their spirited “Phakamisa u 7” campaign. He emphasised that uMlazi continues to demonstrate strong potential and remains a key contender for top performance in the 2026 National Senior Certificate examinations.

Venue: Folweni High School, uMlazi District.

Date: 14 April 2026.

#DBELeadership #uMlaziDistrict #NSC2026 #LearnerMotivation #EducationExcellence #KZNEducation #AcademicPerformance

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1G2tbCy24D/

[WATCH] The Director-General of the Department of Basic Education, Mr Mathanzima Mweli, expressed his profound appreciation for the Pinetown District’s unwavering commitment to excellence.

During his engagement, the Director-General conveyed strong confidence in the district’s leadership, educators, and learners, highlighting their dedication to improving educational outcomes and sustaining high performance. His remarks served as both recognition of progress achieved and motivation to continue striving for excellence.

Venue: Ndengetho High School.

Date: 15 April 2026.

#DBELeadership #PinetownDistrict #EducationExcellence #NSC2026 #LearnerAchievement #KZNEducation

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/18SA9z53SV/

WATCH | The Deputy Director-General for Curriculum Management and Delivery, Mr Mbongiseni Mazibuko, outlines the purpose of the meeting and provides an overview of the “Second Chance” programme, designed to support Matriculants.
The meeting serves to review a comprehensive checklist in preparation for the official launch of the Virtual Tuition Programme.

Venue: Anton Lembede MST Academy.

Date: 16 April 2026.

#VirtualTuition2026 #FullyChargedForSuccess #SecondChanceProgramme #MatricSupport #CurriculumDelivery #EducationInnovation #LearnerSuccess #KZNEducation

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1JXx8TAeLE/

[WATCH] The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, under the Amajuba District, proudly celebrates the outstanding achievement of the Dannhauser CMC.
The Centre has been widely applauded for its critical role in strengthening performance and accelerating Amajuba District’s upward trajectory in provincial rankings. The awards ceremony recognised excellence, dedication, and collaborative leadership in advancing quality teaching and learning.

This achievement reflects a sustained commitment to improving educational outcomes and positioning the district as a strong contributor to provincial success.

Venue: Farmers Hall, Amajuba District

Date: 16 April 2026

#AmajubaDistrict #DannhauserCMC #EducationExcellence #KZNEducation #NSC2026 #LearnerSuccess #TeachingAndLearning

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/14bBtNS8HLL/

In a continued commitment to advancing quality education through innovation, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education—led by the Deputy Director-General for Curriculum Management and Delivery, Mr Mbongiseni Mazibuko—convened a strategic engagement with IT Officers, Subject Coordinators, Subject Teachers, and MCT & ICT officials.

The session focused on strengthening the implementation of the Virtual Tuition Programme, a key initiative within the Smart Schools Project aimed at maximising the effective use of existing technological infrastructure to enhance teaching and learning outcomes across the province.

Anton Lembede MCT Academy was highlighted as a model centre of excellence, recognised for its strong academic performance, effective integration of digital tools, and efficient use of local expertise. The institution stands as a practical demonstration of how innovation, when properly coordinated, can significantly improve educational delivery.

Key emphasis was placed on alignment across curriculum content, timetabling, and communication systems to ensure that educators are fully equipped and ready to deliver structured, high-quality virtual instruction.

While notable progress has been achieved, the engagement underscored the importance of verification, clarity, and consistent dissemination of information to close implementation gaps and strengthen operational readiness.

The success of the programme remains anchored on coordination, accountability, and optimal use of available resources, guided by a shared commitment to empower learners and transform education through digital innovation.

Venue: Anton Lembede MCT Academy.

Date: 16 April 2026.

#VirtualTuition2026 #SmartSchoolsProject #DigitalEducation #CurriculumDelivery #ICTinEducation #TeachingAndLearning #KZNEducation #EducationInnovation

As part of the ongoing provincial monitoring programme, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, led by Director-General Mr. Mathanzima Mweli, conducted a focused engagement in the Pinetown District aimed at strengthening learner support delivery.

The visit was supported by Mr. Mataole Ramohapi, Director: Intergovernmental and Technical Support, and Ms. Sibongile Nkosi-Tembe, Pinetown District Director, together with the district administration team.

Proceedings commenced at Hillcrest High School, where the Director-General engaged directly with district officials. The session emphasised the importance of dedication, accountability, and purposeful service in enhancing support to schools and improving learner outcomes.

In his address, Mr. Mweli highlighted that the active participation of officials reflects a collective commitment to advancing quality education and empowering communities. He further encouraged a culture of excellence driven by passion and integrity, noting that purposeful action not only strengthens professional impact but also fosters meaningful personal fulfilment.

The engagement reaffirmed the department’s commitment to responsive leadership and sustained support mechanisms that contribute to improved teaching and learning across the district.

Venue: Hillcrest High School, Pinetown District

Date: 15 April 2026.

#DBEMonitoringVisit #PinetownDistrict #LearnerSupport #EducationExcellence #PublicServiceWithPurpose #KZNEducation #StrengtheningSupport #QualityLearning #PurposeDrivenLeadership

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, through its Co-Curricular Support Services Directorate, convened a Provincial Workshop for Quality Assurers, Culture Specialists, and Data Capturers at the Stable Theatre in Durban today.

The workshop formed part of the Department’s ongoing preparations for the upcoming Circuit Management Centre (CMC), district, and provincial competitions scheduled for May and June. It provided a strategic platform to address key operational matters and to ensure that all required systems and processes are effectively aligned ahead of the competitions.

The programme focused on three critical areas, namely Data Capturing, Cultural Coordination, and Quality Assurance, each led by dedicated subject specialists who guided discussions and strengthened operational readiness within their respective streams.

KwaZulu-Natal continues to build on its exceptional performance in 2025, where the province secured first place at the National Championship, winning 23 trophies, including the prestigious “Champ of Champs” categories. This achievement underscores the province’s sustained commitment to excellence in co-curricular development.

Venue: Stable Theatre in Durban.

Date: 14 April 2026.

#KZNEducation #SASCE2026 #ExcellenceInEducation #CoCurricularProgrammes #TeamKZN #EducationInAction


https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1NdbB8ni6y/

WATCH: The District Director for uMlazi District, Ms Busi Mahlambi, delivered remarks during the official visit of the Director-General of Basic Education, Mr Mathanzima Mweli, to the district today.

During the engagement at New West Secondary School, the District Director expressed her appreciation for the continued support from the national leadership and reaffirmed the district’s commitment to improving learner outcomes. She assured the delegation that uMlazi District remains focused, resilient, and dedicated to achieving optimal academic performance.

The visit highlights the importance of leadership visibility, support, and collaboration in strengthening district systems and driving sustainable improvements in education delivery.

Venue: New West Secondary School, uMlazi District.

Date: 14 April 2026.

#KZNDoE #LeadershipInAction #EducationExcellence #DistrictDevelopment #uMlaziDistrict #BasicEducation #QualityEducation #StrongerTogether

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1AzTaw5rJD/

A planning meeting was convened in preparation for the upcoming Ministerial visit and official handover of table tennis equipment at Gardenia Primary School, scheduled for 20 April 2026 from 13:00-15:00.

The initiative forms part of a donation by the Republic of China, which contributed 200 table tennis sets for distribution across all provinces. KwaZulu-Natal received a total of 25 sets, which have been securely stored at Gardenia Primary School since their arrival.

At the onset of the programme, beneficiary schools were identified, with eight schools from uMgungundlovu District selected. In total, only eight districts across the province benefited from this initiative.

Although Gardenia Primary School was not initially listed among the beneficiary schools, the planning committee acknowledged the school’s role in safeguarding the equipment. In recognition of this contribution, it was resolved that the school will receive one table tennis set during the official handover ceremony.

The meeting focused on key operational areas to ensure a seamless and dignified event. These included logistics and operations, confirmation of the venue, coordination of equipment delivery and setup, adherence to protocol, security arrangements, communication and media coverage, as well as entertainment and exhibition components.

The session concluded with a site inspection to assess readiness and ensure alignment with the event requirements.

Venue: Gardenia Primary School.

Date: 14 April 2026.

#DepartmentOfEducation
#DepartmentOfSportsArtsAndCulture
#SASchoolSports

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, through its Co-Curricular Support Services Directorate, convened a Provincial Workshop for Quality Assurers, Culture Specialists, and Data Capturers at the Stable Theatre in Durban today.

The workshop formed part of the Department’s ongoing preparations for the upcoming Circuit Management Centre (CMC), district, and provincial competitions scheduled for May and June. It provided a strategic platform to address key operational matters and to ensure that all required systems and processes are effectively aligned ahead of the competitions.

The programme focused on three critical areas, namely Data Capturing, Cultural Coordination, and Quality Assurance, each led by dedicated subject specialists who guided discussions and strengthened operational readiness within their respective streams.

KwaZulu-Natal continues to build on its exceptional performance in 2025, where the province secured first place at the National Championship, winning 23 trophies, including the prestigious “Champ of Champs” categories. This achievement underscores the province’s sustained commitment to excellence in co-curricular development.

Venue: Stable Theatre in Durban.
Date: 14 April 2026.

#KZNEducation #SASCE2026 #ExcellenceInEducation #CoCurricularProgrammes #TeamKZN #EducationInAction


https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1NdbB8ni6y/

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education Extended Top Management convened a high-level bilateral engagement with the South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) Provincial Working Committee held today in the Boardroom at Dokkies, Glenwood, Durban.

This strategic meeting reaffirmed a shared commitment to advancing education excellence across KwaZulu-Natal through strengthened collaboration, constructive dialogue, and aligned priorities. Key discussions focused on enhancing teaching and learning outcomes, improving system efficiency, and reinforcing support mechanisms for educators and learners.

The engagement underscores the importance of unified leadership in driving sustainable progress and ensuring the delivery of quality, equitable education across the province.

Venue: Dokkies Boardroom, Glenwood, Durban.

Date: 14 April 2026.

#KZNDoE #SADTU #EducationExcellence #LeadershipInAction #QualityEducation #StrongerTogether #PublicEducation #CollaborativeGovernance

The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Sipho Hlomuka, arrived at Amazizi High School in the uThukela District for the official Provincial Launch of Schools Democracy Week, reinforcing government’s commitment to cultivating active and informed young citizens.

The programme commenced with a comprehensive briefing led by District Director Ms Mapaseka Mokoena, who underscored the critical role of schools in instilling democratic values and promoting voter education among learners.

Adding to the engagement, Provincial Electoral Officer Ms Ntombifuthi Masinga, highlighted the impact of the ongoing collaboration between the Department of Education and the Independent Electoral Commission. She emphasized that this partnership continues to play a pivotal role in encouraging youth voter registration and participation in electoral processes.

“Schools serve as a vital platform to educate not only learners, but also parents and the broader community on the importance of participating in democratic processes,” she remarked.

Venue: Amazizi High School, uThukela District.
Date: 13 April 2026.

#SchoolsDemocracyWeek #DemocracyInAction #ActiveCitizenship #KZNDoE #YouthEmpowerment

The Department of Basic Education proudly recognises and celebrates outstanding academic achievement in the King Cetshwayo District, where high-performing learners have attained exceptional results of 90% and above, with several ranked among the top 30 nationally.

Among the top achievers are Alwande Zondo, Gugulethu Nxumalo, Libongwe Zikhali, Siyamthanda Mdluli, and Irianna Riverduplislu, whose dedication and consistent excellence continue to set a benchmark for academic success.

Additional commendable performers include Luyanda Za (91.3%), Zandile Ndlovu (92.43%), Mnotho Funeka (93%), and Manavu (96.13%), reflecting a strong culture of hard work, resilience, and commitment to achieving the 100% performance target.
These achievements highlight the impact of focused learner support, effective teaching, and a shared commitment to excellence across the district.

Venue: Empangeni High School, King Cetshwayo District.
Date: 13 April 2026.

#KZNEducation #AcademicExcellence #TopAchievers #ClassOfExcellence #LearnerSuccess #SikhulangeMfundo

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, in partnership with the IEC, will officially launch the Provincial School Democracy Week at Amazizi High School under the theme “Democracy in Action.”
The event will be presided over by the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, whose presence affirms the importance of empowering young people to meaningfully engage in democratic processes and contribute to nation-building.
Date: Monday, 13 April 2026
Time: 10:00
Venue: Amazizi High School

#DemocracyInAction #SchoolDemocracyWeek #ActiveCitizenship #KZNDOE #BuildingTheFuture

Director-General for Basic Education, Mr Mathanzima Mweli, today led a high-level provincial monitoring visit to the Ilembe District, reaffirming the Department’s commitment to strengthening learner support, improving curriculum delivery, and enhancing accountability across schools.

The visit commenced at Vukile High School, where the Director-General delivered a motivational address to learners and education officials, underscoring the importance of purpose, discipline, and commitment in achieving academic success. He urged learners to take ownership of their education, confront challenges with determination, and strive for excellence with integrity.

Central to the visit were focused engagements on key systemic priorities, including improving foundational learning—particularly in reading and languages—strengthening the alignment between curriculum planning and classroom practice, and accelerating progress in Mathematics performance. The Director-General further challenged schools to work towards a 100% pass rate and introduced the “Five Nuggets” for success: consistent attendance, active participation, effective study habits, discipline, and clear goal-setting.

District Director, Dr Mawenkosi Madondo, highlighted the district’s ongoing Youth Development and Enrichment Programme, which intensifies in September through a range of academic and co-curricular initiatives designed to support holistic learner development. The district remains committed to achieving a minimum performance target of 80% across all subjects through sustained collaboration and focused intervention strategies.

The programme included monitoring visits and direct engagements at multiple schools across the district, reinforcing the Department’s hands-on approach to ensuring quality teaching and learning.

The visit reaffirmed the critical role of strong leadership, effective monitoring, and consistent implementation in driving improved learner outcomes across KwaZulu-Natal.

Venue: Ilembe District Schools.

Date: 01 April 2026.

#KZNDOE #DrivingExcellence #IlembeDistrict #CurriculumDelivery #LearnerSuccess #EducationMatters #Matric2026 #BuildingTheFuture #Accountability #QualityEducation

WATCH | Mr Henry Benson, Education Advisor at VVOB – Education for Development, outlines the organisation’s strategic partnership with the Department of Education, focused on supporting online and blended continuous professional development—particularly in Early Grade Reading and foundational learning through play at the Early Childhood Development (ECD) level.

He further explains that today’s engagement seeks to explore how the education system can build its capacity through the effective use of virtual conferencing technologies, and how these platforms can be leveraged to reach educators in remote and hard-to-access areas across the province.

This collaboration underscores a shared commitment to enhancing educator development, strengthening foundational learning, and leveraging innovation to improve teaching and learning outcomes.

Venue: Riverside Hotel, Durban.

Date: 25 March 2026.

#KZNEducation
#VVOB
#ICTinEducation
#EarlyGradeReading
#ECD
#BlendedLearning
#TeacherDevelopment
#FutureReadySchools

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1FbHZjcUC5/

As part of the OSS/DDM Cabinet Day in the Harry Gwala District, Project 3 highlights the impactful work of MBHELEJA Enterprise Garden2, an agricultural initiative established in 2023 by Mr S Thabiso Mkungo, a dedicated farmer committed to rural development and food security.

The project, funded by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development with an investment of R463,000, has made significant strides in promoting local economic growth and skills development. MBHELEJA Enterprise has created employment opportunities for 14 graduates, including 10 from Mangosuthu University of Technology and 4 unemployed graduates, contributing meaningfully to youth empowerment.

Current production activities include the cultivation of 1 hectare of green peppers and 1.5 hectares of butternut, supporting both local supply and market participation.
However, the project has faced considerable challenges due to adverse weather conditions. An extreme heat wave in January 2026 resulted in the loss of 60,000 spinach seedlings and 25,000 cabbage seedlings, while hailstorms on 31 January caused further damage to peppers and mature spinach crops.

To mitigate these challenges and strengthen resilience, key interventions have been identified. These include the upgrading of the irrigation system to enhance water efficiency and productivity, as well as the introduction of climate-resilient, water-use efficient cultivars to better manage heat stress and safeguard future yields.
This project underscores Government’s commitment to sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, and inclusive economic development through coordinated service delivery.

Venue: Fairview Hall, Ixopo.

Date: 25 March 2026
#OSS
#DDM
#WarRoomFunctionality
#ServiceDelivery
#HarryGwalaDistrict
#GovernmentAtWork
#YouthEmpowerment
#BuildingCommunities

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, in collaboration with key Government stakeholders, is hosting the OSS/DDM Cabinet Day in the Harry Gwala District under the Johannes Phumani Phungula Local Municipality, as part of strengthening integrated service delivery.

The MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, arrived at Fairview Hall in Ixopo to participate in the Operations Sukuma Sakhe programme, which brings Government services closer to communities and ensures coordinated responses to service delivery challenges.

MEC Hlomuka, together with the Head of Department for Public Works, Dr Vish Govender, is deployed to Ward 4 in the Morningside area as part of ongoing community engagement and monitoring of service delivery interventions aimed at improving living conditions and strengthening collaboration between government and communities.

Venue: Fairview Hall, Ixopo.

Date: 25 March 2026.

#KZNEducation
#HarryGwalaDistrict
#OSS
#DDM
#OperationSukumaSakhe
#ServiceDelivery
#GovernmentAtWork
#BuildingCommunities

It is Day 1 of the Mathematics and English PLC Coordinators Workshop for educators in the Harry Gwala District, hosted by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education in partnership with the South African Council for Educators (SACE).

Chief Education Specialist for GET in the Harry Gwala District, Dr Nomvuyo Thobela, welcomed attendees and outlined the purpose of the crucial workshop.
“The workshop will capacitate you to be able to establish PLCs. These will ensure coordinated support to learners and educators,” said Dr Thobela.

The workshop aims to unlock the full potential of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) in enhancing learner performance, while also engaging stakeholders on their role in supporting the establishment of effective PLCs. Educators are further introduced to additional resources, including online PLC courses, to expand their knowledge and practice.

CES from the Teacher Development Directorate, Dr Mlaba, presented on the objectives of PLCs and how both educators and learners can benefit from strengthened curriculum interventions aimed at improving learner outcomes.

During commission sessions, educators actively explored diverse teaching methodologies to enhance classroom practice and improve teaching and learning.

Venue: Sani Pass Premier Hotel.
Date: 24 March 2026.


#KZNEducation #TeacherDevelopment #PLCs #HarryGwalaDistrict #QualityEducation #MathematicsEducation #EnglishEducation #CurriculumDevelopment #BuildingFutureLeaders

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education proudly announces the appointment of 500 Grade R teachers across the province, effective 1 April 2026.

This milestone underscores government’s commitment to strengthening Early Childhood Development and advancing the implementation of the BELA Act, which makes Grade R compulsory as a critical foundation for learning. The initiative further supports the professionalisation of Grade R, ensuring that learners are guided by qualified and dedicated educators.

The appointment will significantly improve teacher-to-learner ratios, enhance the quality of teaching and learning, and expand access to structured early learning—particularly in rural and underserved communities.

This investment in the foundation phase will contribute to improved literacy and numeracy outcomes, better school readiness, and long-term gains in learner retention and matric success.

“We congratulate the 500 newly appointed educators who begin their journey on 1 April 2026. You represent hope, opportunity, and a stronger future for the children of KwaZulu-Natal,” said MEC Sipho Hlomuka.

Date: 26 March 2026.

#KZNEducation #GradeR #EarlyChildhoodDevelopment #BELAAct #FoundationPhase #EducationForAll #GrowingKwaZuluNatal #LeaveNoChildBehind

WATCH | The Deputy Director-General for Curriculum Management and Delivery, Mr Mbongiseni Mazibuko, outlines the purpose of today’s meeting, following a resolution taken during a virtual engagement held on 18 March 2026.

The Head of Department subsequently directed the establishment of a task team to evaluate and analyse the technical aspects of the proposed ICT equipment donation from VVOB, ensuring alignment with departmental priorities and operational readiness.

As a way forward, Mr Mazibuko indicated that a consultation meeting will be convened with District Directors to determine suitable centres for implementation. Feedback and a draft project plan, including clear timelines, will thereafter be submitted to the Head of Department to support effective monitoring and evaluation.

This initiative reflects the Department’s commitment to strengthening digital learning infrastructure and enhancing teaching and learning through strategic partnerships.

Venue: Riverside Hotel, Durban.

Date: 25 March 2026.

#KZNEducation
#ICTinEducation
#DigitalLearning
#PublicPrivatePartnerships
#CurriculumDelivery
#FutureReadySchools
#GovernmentAtWork

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1XoAA3ysWM/

Namhlanje, uNdunankulu wesiFundazwe saKwaZulu-Natal, uMhlonishwa Thami Ntuli, ephelekezelwa amalungu eKhabhinethi, bavakashele isifunda sase-Harry Gwala ngaphansi koHlelo i-Operation Sukuma Sakhe (OSS), ngenhloso yokuhlola intuthuko nokuthuthukisa ukulethwa kwezinsiza emphakathini.

UMhlonishwa uSipho Hlomuka, kanye noMphathi woMnyango Wezemisebenzi Yomphakathi (HOD), uDkt Vish Govender, bajutshwe eWard 4, e-Ixopo (Morningside), lapho beqale khona uhlelo losuku ngokuvakashela i-War Room ukuze bahlole ukusebenza kwayo. UKhansela wewadi, uMhlonishwa T.L. Mahlaba, unikeze umbiko wokuthi i-War Room isebenza kahle, kanti iminyango kahulumeni iyabamba iqhaza futhi ihlangana lapho kubizwa khona ukuze kubhekwane nezinkinga zomphakathi.

Nokho, kuphawulwe izinselelo ezisabhekene newadi, okuhlanganisa ukusetshenziswa ngokweqile kotshwala kanye nokwanda kobugebengu, okuphazamisa ukuphepha nokuphila kahle komphakathi.

Uhlelo luqhubekile ngokuvakashelwa kwephrojekthi yomgwaqo, kanye nepulazi elaziwa ngeMbheleja Enterprise, lapho kukhiqizwa khona upelepele (green pepper) kanye ne-butternut. Umnikazi wepulazi ugcizelele iqhaza labafundi nabasanda kuphothula izifundo ekusebenzeni kwansuku zonke, okukhombisa ukuzibophezela ekuthuthukiseni amakhono entsha.

Uhambo luphethe ngokuhlangana komphakathi eMbizweni kaNdunankulu eMorningside Stadium, lapho abaholi bakahulumeni bethule khona imibiko yosuku futhi baxhumana ngqo nomphakathi ngezinhlelo zokuthuthukisa izimo zokuphila.

Indawo: Morningside Stadium

Usuku: 25 March 2026

#OSS
#DDM
#HarryGwalaDistrict
#UkulethwaKwezinsiza
#WarRoomFunctionality
#UhulumeniUyasebenza
#UkuthuthukiswaKomphakathi
#KZNEducation

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1CYGpaGf5J/

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education strongly condemns the violent behaviour displayed in a disturbing video circulating on social media, depicting two female learners engaged in a physical altercation in Bilanyoni Township.

Listen to the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education’s Head of Communications, Mr Muzi Mahlambi, regarding the Department’s response to learner violence.

The learners, reported to be from Kanyekanye High School and Kwasa High School, have brought to light a serious concern regarding learner discipline, safety, and the broader culture within school communities. Such conduct is completely unacceptable and undermines the values of respect, dignity, and non-violence that schools are meant to uphold.

The Department is engaging with both schools and relevant stakeholders to ensure that appropriate disciplinary processes are followed, while also providing the necessary psycho-social support to the learners involved.

Furthermore, the Department calls on parents, community leaders, and all members of society to work collaboratively with schools to address the root causes of learner misconduct. Building safe and supportive learning environments requires a united and proactive approach from all sectors of the community.

The Department remains committed to fostering a culture of discipline, accountability, and mutual respect across all schools in the province.

Date: 24 March 2026.

#SafeSchools
#EndSchoolViolence
#BuildingResponsibleCitizens
#KZNEducation

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/18HzBmKAr7/

WATCH | Chief Education Specialist from the Teacher Development directorate, Dr Sifiso Mlaba sharing with attendees, what are PLC's and their role in supporting schools.

"PLC's determine  their own development trajectory and set up activities.  PLC's discuss how to translate educational innovation into their practice," remarked Dr Mlaba.

? Venue: Sani Pass Premier Hotel.

?️ Date: 24 March 2026.

#KZNEducation #TeacherDevelopment #PLCs #QualityEducation #HarryGwalaDistrict #MathematicsEducation #EnglishEducation

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1GoDjz8TgC/

UMnyango Wezemfundo KwaZulu-Natal ugxeka kakhulu isigameko esikhathazayo esivezwe kwividiyo esisabalale ezinkundleni zokuxhumana, ekhombisa abafundi ababili besifazane bebamba iqhaza odlameni eBilanyoni Township.

Lalela uMphathi Wezokuxhumana woMnyango Wezemfundo KwaZulu-Natal, uMnu Muzi Mahlambi, ephawula mayelana nendlela uMnyango osabela ngayo odlameni lwabafundi.

Kubikwa ukuthi laba bafundi bavela eKanyekanye High School naseKwasa High School. Lesi sigameko sikhathazeka kakhulu futhi asamukelekile neze, njengoba siphikisana nemigomo yokuhlonipha, isithunzi kanye nokuphepha ezikoleni.

UMnyango usuqalile ukusebenzisana nezikole ezithintekayo kanye nababambe iqhaza ukuze kuqinisekiswe ukuthi kulandelwa izinqubo ezifanele zokuziphatha, kanye nokuhlinzekwa ngosizo lwe-psycho-social kubafundi abathintekayo.

UMnyango uphinde ubize abaholi bomphakathi, abazali kanye nawo wonke amalungu omphakathi ukuthi basebenzisane nezikole ekubhekaneni nezimbangela zalolu dlame, ukuze kwakhiwe izikole eziphephile, ezihloniphayo futhi ezikhuthaza ukuziphatha okuhle.

UMnyango uhlala uzibophezele ekwakheni isiko lokuhloniphana, ukuziphatha kahle kanye nokuzibophezela phakathi kwabafundi kuzo zonke izikole zesifundazwe.

Usuku: 24 Mashi 2026

#IzikoleEziphephile
#QedaUdlameEzikoleni
#UkubambisanaKomphakathi
#KZNEducation

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1ZRhVa5VUo/

WATCH | Mr Henry Benson, Education Advisor at VVOB – Education for Development, outlines the organisation’s strategic partnership with the Department of Education, focused on supporting online and blended continuous professional development—particularly in Early Grade Reading and foundational learning through play at the Early Childhood Development (ECD) level.

He further explains that today’s engagement seeks to explore how the education system can build its capacity through the effective use of virtual conferencing technologies, and how these platforms can be leveraged to reach educators in remote and hard-to-access areas across the province.

This collaboration underscores a shared commitment to enhancing educator development, strengthening foundational learning, and leveraging innovation to improve teaching and learning outcomes.

Venue: Riverside Hotel, Durban.

Date: 25 March 2026.

#KZNEducation
#VVOB
#ICTinEducation
#EarlyGradeReading
#ECD
#BlendedLearning
#TeacherDevelopment
#FutureReadySchools

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1FbHZjcUC5/

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education continues to prioritise educator development through targeted capacity-building initiatives, as the Harry Gwala District hosts the Mathematics and English PLC Coordinators Workshop.

Watch | Chief Education Specialist for GET, Dr Nimvuyo Thobela, outlines the strategic intent of the workshop, emphasising the critical role of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) in enhancing teaching quality and learner outcomes.

“We need to ensure that PLCs are effective. PLCs are an instrument to strengthen teacher professional development,” said Dr Thobela.

The workshop serves as a vital platform to empower coordinators with the necessary tools and strategies to drive impactful collaboration among educators, ultimately improving performance in key learning areas such as Mathematics and English.

 Venue: Sani Pass Premier Hotel

 Date: 24 March 2026

#KZNEducation #TeacherDevelopment #PLCs #QualityEducation #HarryGwalaDistrict #MathematicsEducation #EnglishEducation #BuildingFutureLeaders

It is Day 1 of the Mathematics and English PLC Coordinators Workshop for educators in the Harry Gwala District, hosted by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education in partnership with the South African Council for Educators (SACE).

Chief Education Specialist for GET in the Harry Gwala District, Dr Nomvuyo Thobela, welcomed attendees and outlined the purpose of the crucial workshop.

“The workshop will capacitate you to be able to establish PLCs. These will ensure coordinated support to learners and educators,” said Dr Thobela.

The workshop aims to unlock the full potential of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) in enhancing learner performance, while also engaging stakeholders on their role in supporting the establishment of effective PLCs. Educators are further introduced to additional resources, including online PLC courses, to expand their knowledge and practice.

CES from the Teacher Development Directorate, Dr Mlaba, presented on the objectives of PLCs and how both educators and learners can benefit from strengthened curriculum interventions aimed at improving learner outcomes.

During commission sessions, educators actively explored diverse teaching methodologies to enhance classroom practice and improve teaching and learning.

 Venue: Sani Pass Premier Hotel.

 Date: 24 March 2026.

#KZNEducation #TeacherDevelopment #PLCs #HarryGwalaDistrict #QualityEducation #MathematicsEducation #EnglishEducation #CurriculumDevelopment #BuildingFutureLeaders

The Director-General of the Department of Basic Education, Mr Mathanzima Mweli, is today conducting an oversight visit in the uMkhanyakude District to monitor the implementation and effectiveness of the 2026 Learner Support Programme.

​This strategic engagement underscores the Department’s commitment to improving learner outcomes through targeted academic support, curriculum coverage, and intervention programmes. The visit includes direct interaction with district officials, school management teams, and educators to assess progress, identify challenges, and reinforce accountability measures.

​The oversight mission covered a comprehensive circuit of educational institutions, including Mntanenkosi High, Moses Zikhali High, Mpiyakhe High, Inkosi Justice Nxumalo High, and Zenzeleni High. The Director-General further extended the monitoring to Jikijela High School, Salamanga High School, Sithembinhlanhla High School, Thongwana High School, and Nodineka High School to ensure uniform standards of support across the district.

​The Learner Support Programme remains a critical pillar in advancing quality education, ensuring that no learner is left behind as the sector continues to prioritise equitable access to learning opportunities and improved academic performance across all schools.

​Venue: Various Schools, uMkhanyakude District.

Date: 23 March 2026.

​#LearnerSupportProgramme #QualityEducation #DBE #EducationMatters

#KZNDoE

#uMkhanyakude #CurriculumSupport

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education’s Curriculum Management and Delivery Branch continues to advance its commitment to strengthening teaching and learning through the Extended Planning Meeting and Strategic Workshop – Day 3. Anchored on the theme “Strengthening foundations for a resilient and future-ready education system by improving teaching and learning outcomes across all grades,” the workshop reinforces targeted, data-driven interventions to enhance learner performance across the province.

Watch | KZNDOE’s uMlazi District Director, Mrs Busi Mahlambi, reflects on the value derived from the curriculum strategic planning workshop, outlining key takeaways and how the district is rolling out the Department’s core mandate to improve curriculum delivery and learner attainment.

Departmental officials provided critical insights into key focus areas, including the implementation of the T60 programme, strategies to improve Mathematics outcomes, and intensified support for both the Foundation Phase (Grades 1–3) and Further Education and Training (FET) Phase.

The engagement emphasised early identification of learner gaps, differentiated teaching approaches, continuous progress monitoring, and strengthened collaboration with educators, School Management Teams (SMTs), and School Governing Bodies (SGBs) to ensure inclusive and equitable learning opportunities.

Venue: Riverside Hotel, Durban.

Date: 20 March 2026.

#KZNDOE #CurriculumDelivery #QualityEducation #TeachingAndLearning #FutureReadyEducation #NoLearnerLeftBehind

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1Bh7G6eBA5/

Theme: Strengthening foundations for a resilient and future-ready education system by improving teaching and learning outcomes across all grades.

WATCH | Departmental officials give insight into the Extended Planning Meeting and Strategic Workshop and the strategies being implemented to improve teaching and learning across KwaZulu-Natal schools.

The discussions highlight initiatives, including the T60 programme, improving Mathematics performance, and targeted support for Grades 1–3 (Foundational Phase) and FET Phase learners. Officials focus on early identification of learner gaps, differentiated support, progress monitoring, and collaboration with teachers, school management teams, and School Governing Bodies (SGBs) to ensure no learner is left behind.

Venue: Riverside Hotel, Durban.

Date: 19 March 2026.

#KZNEducation #CurriculumDelivery #DistrictExcellence #LearnerPerformance #StrategicPlanning EducationLeadership

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/18EmPpHguy/

The Fundisa for Change Keep It Cool: Climate Change Education Project, implemented across the districts of iLembe, uMzinyathi, uMgungundlovu, Harry Gwala, and uThukela with the support of VVOB, continues to advance climate change education in KwaZulu-Natal as it enters its second year of implementation.

Held from 16–20 March 2026 across participating districts (iLembe, uMzinyathi, uMgungundlovu, Harry Gwala, and uThukela), the orientation programme focused on onboarding teachers and Departmental Heads, equipping them with the knowledge and tools required to effectively integrate climate change education into the curriculum. The sessions brought together educators and school leadership from across participating districts, fostering collaboration and shared learning.

A key focus area was the integration of climate change education within Life Orientation, Social Sciences, and Natural Sciences, ensuring alignment with the CAPS curriculum while strengthening classroom delivery and learner engagement.
Throughout the week, participants engaged in meaningful discussions aimed at empowering learners with the knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes necessary to respond to climate challenges within their communities. The programme also introduced a blended Continuous Professional Development approach, incorporating the online Introduction to Education for Sustainable Development course and Professional Learning Communities as central components.

Currently implemented across Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape, the Fundisa for Change Keep It Cool project continues to support provinces in advancing sustainable and context-responsive education.

The sessions were marked by strong participation, active engagement, and a collective commitment to strengthening climate change education across schools in KwaZulu-Natal.

Districts: iLembe, uMzinyathi, uMgungundlovu, Harry Gwala, uThukela.
Dates: 16–20 March 2026.

#FundisaforChange
#KeepItCool
#ClimateChangeEducation
#KZNDoE
#TeacherDevelopment
#ESD
#SustainableEducation

IN PICTURES | The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, under the leadership of Head of Department, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo, proudly celebrated the exceptional National Senior Certificate (NSC) performance of uMkhanyakude District during a prestigious Excellence Awards Ceremony held at Khulani Special School.

Awards were presented across various categories, including schools achieving 100% pass rates, consecutive excellence, high enrolment with strong performance, best-performing circuits, most improved schools, outstanding Curriculum Management Committees (CMCs), and top-performing educators in key subjects such as Accounting, Physical Sciences, and Mathematical Literacy. Awardees received trophies, certificates, and gifts in recognition of their outstanding contributions.

This celebration stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, strong leadership, and sustained commitment to quality education in driving learner success across the province.

Venue: Khulani Special School, uMkhanyakude District
Date: 19 March 2026

#KZNEducation #NSCExcellence #UMkhanyakudeDistrict #EducationMatters #LearnerSuccess #AcademicExcellence #ProudlyKZN #QualityEducation #BuildingTheFuture

Theme: Strengthening foundations for a resilient and future-ready education system by improving teaching and learning outcomes across all grades.

WATCH | Departmental officials give insight into the Extended Planning Meeting and Strategic Workshop and the strategies being implemented to improve teaching and learning across KwaZulu-Natal schools.

The discussions highlight initiatives, including the T60 programme, improving Mathematics performance, and targeted support for Grades 1–3 (Foundational Phase) and FET Phase learners. Officials focus on early identification of learner gaps, differentiated support, progress monitoring, and collaboration with teachers, school management teams, and School Governing Bodies (SGBs) to ensure no learner is left behind.

Venue: Riverside Hotel, Durban.

Date: 19 March 2026.

#KZNEducation #CurriculumDelivery #DistrictExcellence #LearnerPerformance #StrategicPlanning EducationLeadership

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/18EmPpHguy/

Theme: Strengthening foundations for a resilient and future-ready education system by improving teaching and learning outcomes across all grades.

WATCH | Departmental officials give insight into the Extended Planning Meeting and Strategic Workshop and the strategies being implemented to improve teaching and learning across KwaZulu-Natal schools.

The discussions highlight initiatives, including the T60 programme, improving Mathematics performance, and targeted support for Grades 1–3 (Foundational Phase) and FET Phase learners. Officials focus on early identification of learner gaps, differentiated support, progress monitoring, and collaboration with teachers, school management teams, and School Governing Bodies (SGBs) to ensure no learner is left behind.

Venue: Riverside Hotel, Durban.

Date: 19 March 2026.

#KZNEducation #CurriculumDelivery #DistrictExcellence #LearnerPerformance #StrategicPlanning EducationLeadership

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1DMfHdZ8eF/

Theme: Strengthening foundations for a resilient and future-ready education system by improving teaching and learning outcomes across all grades.

WATCH | Departmental officials give insight into the Extended Planning Meeting and Strategic Workshop and the strategies being implemented to improve teaching and learning across KwaZulu-Natal schools.

The discussions highlight initiatives, including the T60 programme, improving Mathematics performance, and targeted support for Grades 1–3 (Foundational Phase) and FET Phase learners. Officials focus on early identification of learner gaps, differentiated support, progress monitoring, and collaboration with teachers, school management teams, and School Governing Bodies (SGBs) to ensure no learner is left behind.

Venue: Riverside Hotel, Durban.

Date: 19 March 2026.

#KZNEducation #CurriculumDelivery #DistrictExcellence #LearnerPerformance #StrategicPlanning EducationLeadership

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1BtjCsT8ER/

WATCH | uMkhanyakude District Director Mr Thanduyise Motha expressed confidence in the district’s future performance, saying: “Our district is like no other because we are confident that our 2026 targets will be met. Our commitment is to soar even higher than the achievements of 2025.”

Mr. Motha made these remarks while presenting awards to all recipients who excelled in the 2025 academic year.

Venue: Khulani Special School, uMkhanyakude District.

Date: 19 March 2026.

#KZNEducation #NSCExcellence #UMkhanyakudeDistrict #EducationMatters #LearnerSuccess #AcademicExcellence #ProudlyKZN #QualityEducation #BuildingTheFuture

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/18EebYjkzs/

WATCH |The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education celebrates uMkhanyakude District as the highest-performing district in the province.

His Worship, Cllr Siphiwe Mdaka, delivered the keynote address at the awards ceremony, indicated that uMkhanyakude has performed exceptionally well and expressed his appreciation for the sacrifices made, particularly by teachers who are at the forefront of delivering the curriculum. “You have transformed learning and addressed the imbalances of the past, and for that, we thank you,” remarked Cllr Mdaka.

The beautiful event was filled with joy and delight from all attendees, especially the awardees, who sang and danced in celebration of the Class of 2025.

Venue: Khulani Special School, uMkhanyakude District

Date: 19 March 2026

#KZNEducation #NSCExcellence #UMkhanyakudeDistrict #EducationMatters #LearnerSuccess #AcademicExcellence #ProudlyKZN #QualityEducation #BuildingTheFuture

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/18Wrbr21nj/

The uMkhanyakude District NSC Examination Excellence Awards are underway at Khulani Special School, bringing together key stakeholders in celebration of outstanding achievement and commitment to educational excellence.

WATCH | The ceremony has commenced in a fully packed hall, attended by esteemed dignitaries from the Department of Education, led by the Head of Department, Nkosinathi Ngcobo, alongside representatives from Organised Labour and the uMkhanyakude District Municipality, led by His Worship, Cllr Mdaka, as well as other valued stakeholders.

The atmosphere is filled with anticipation and pride as guests eagerly await the presentation of tokens of appreciation to individuals who have demonstrated excellence and dedication in the execution of their duties, contributing to the success of the NSC examinations.

 Venue: Khulani Special School, uMkhanyakude District.

 Date: 19 March 2026.

#KZNEducation #NSCExcellenceAwards #uMkhanyakudeDistrict #AcademicExcellence #CelebratingSuccess #ClassOf2025 #QualityEducation

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/184xnNqgFc/

The Fundisa for Change Keep It Cool: Climate Change Education Project, implemented across the districts of iLembe, uMzinyathi, uMgungundlovu, Harry Gwala, and uThukela with the support of VVOB, continues to advance climate change education in KwaZulu-Natal as it enters its second year of implementation.

Held from 16–20 March 2026 across participating districts (iLembe, uMzinyathi, uMgungundlovu, Harry Gwala, and uThukela), the orientation programme focused on onboarding teachers and Departmental Heads, equipping them with the knowledge and tools required to effectively integrate climate change education into the curriculum. The sessions brought together educators and school leadership from across participating districts, fostering collaboration and shared learning.

A key focus area was the integration of climate change education within Life Orientation, Social Sciences, and Natural Sciences, ensuring alignment with the CAPS curriculum while strengthening classroom delivery and learner engagement.

Throughout the week, participants engaged in meaningful discussions aimed at empowering learners with the knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes necessary to respond to climate challenges within their communities. The programme also introduced a blended Continuous Professional Development approach, incorporating the online Introduction to Education for Sustainable Development course and Professional Learning Communities as central components.

Currently implemented across Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape, the Fundisa for Change Keep It Cool project continues to support provinces in advancing sustainable and context-responsive education.

The sessions were marked by strong participation, active engagement, and a collective commitment to strengthening climate change education across schools in KwaZulu-Natal.

Districts: iLembe, uMzinyathi, uMgungundlovu, Harry Gwala, uThukela.

Dates: 16–20 March 2026.

#FundisaforChange

#KeepItCool

#ClimateChangeEducation

#KZNDoE

#TeacherDevelopment

#ESD

#SustainableEducation

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education’s Curriculum Management and Delivery branch has commenced its three-day extended planning meeting and strategic workshop at Riverside Hotel, with Day 1 setting a strong foundation for impactful engagement.

The KZNDOE'S Deputy Director-General for Curriculum Management and Delivery, Mr Mbongiseni Mazibuko, officially welcomed delegates and outlined the workshop’s key objectives, which include reviewing programme achievements, strengthening operational efficiency, and enhancing curriculum delivery across the province.

The session featured comprehensive presentations reflecting on the successes of 2025 and mapping out strategic priorities for 2026. Chief Director for Examination, Assessment and Quality Assurance, Dr Raymond Penniston, highlighted the continued growth in examination candidates and emphasised the importance of targeted support for disadvantaged schools. He further noted that KwaZulu-Natal remains the province with the highest number of examination candidates, reinforcing the critical role of effective coordination and oversight in ensuring seamless assessment processes.

The workshop also provided a platform for meaningful engagement, with officials and school leaders actively participating in discussions, sharing best practices, and contributing to a unified vision aimed at strengthening teaching, learning, and assessment across all districts.

Venue: Riverside Hotel, Durban.

Date: 18 March 2026.

#KZNEducation #CurriculumDelivery #StrategicPlanning #QualityEducation #TeachingAndLearning #EducationExcellence

The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, is attending a parliamentary sitting at the Provincial Legislature Main Precinct, where he will take part in the voting process following the conclusion of legislative debates.

His presence underscores the Department’s commitment to good governance and active participation in legislative processes that shape policy direction and service delivery across the province.

Venue: Provincial Legislature Main Precinct.

 Date: 19 March 2026.

#KZNEducation #KZNLegislature #LeadershipInAction #GoodGovernance #PublicService #GrowingKwaZuluNatal

The uMkhanyakude District NSC Excellence Awards are underway at Khulani Special School, as senior leadership and distinguished guests gather to celebrate academic excellence and achievement.

The Head of Department for the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo, was warmly received upon arrival by Deputy Director-General for Corporate Services Management, Advocate Bheki Masuku; Chief Director for District Operations in the Midlands Region, Mr David Chonco; and host, Mr Thanduyise Motha, District Director for uMkhanyakude.

The Department’s delegation also welcomed His Worship, Mr Siphiwe Mdaka, Mayor of the uMkhanyakude District Municipality, who joined other distinguished guests in marking this significant occasion.

The event stands as a proud celebration of the outstanding achievements of the Class of 2025, reflecting the district’s continued commitment to academic excellence and quality education.

 Venue: Khulani Special School, uMkhanyakude District

 Date: 19 March 2026.

#KZNEducation #uMkhanyakudeDistrict #NSCExcellenceAwards #ClassOf2025 #AcademicExcellence #CelebratingSuccess #QualityEducation

The uMkhanyakude District NSC Examination Excellence Awards are in full swing at Khulani Special School, marking a proud moment as the district is honoured as the province’s number one performing district.

The District Director for uMkhanyakude, Mr Thanduyise Motha, officially set the tone for the day’s proceedings by introducing distinguished dignitaries and providing a comprehensive briefing to attendees.

In his remarks, the Head of Department for the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo, expressed appreciation for the active involvement and continued support of His Worship, Siphiwe Mdaka, Mayor of the uMkhanyakude District Municipality, along with other key stakeholders in advancing the Department’s educational mandate.

The delegation thereafter proceeded to the main hall for the commencement of the highly anticipated awards ceremony, which celebrates the District’s outstanding performance and commitment to excellence. The occasion stands as a fitting tribute to the dedication of educators, learners, and officials who continue to drive academic success.

Venue: Khulani Special School, uMkhanyakude District.

Date: 19 March 2026.

#KZNEducation #uMkhanyakudeDistrict #NSCExcellenceAwards #ClassOf2025 #AcademicExcellence #CelebratingSuccess #QualityEducation

IN PICTURES | The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, under the leadership of Head of Department, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo, proudly celebrated the exceptional National Senior Certificate (NSC) performance of uMkhanyakude District during a prestigious Excellence Awards Ceremony held at Khulani Special School.

Awards were presented across various categories, including schools achieving 100% pass rates, consecutive excellence, high enrolment with strong performance, best-performing circuits, most improved schools, outstanding Curriculum Management Committees (CMCs), and top-performing educators in key subjects such as Accounting, Physical Sciences, and Mathematical Literacy. Awardees received trophies, certificates, and gifts in recognition of their outstanding contributions.

This celebration stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, strong leadership, and sustained commitment to quality education in driving learner success across the province.

 Venue: Khulani Special School, uMkhanyakude District

Date: 19 March 2026

#KZNEducation #NSCExcellence #UMkhanyakudeDistrict #EducationMatters #LearnerSuccess #AcademicExcellence #ProudlyKZN #QualityEducation #BuildingTheFuture

The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Sipho Hlomuka, proudly announces the acting appointment of Mrs Zanele Ntombela as Director: Strategic Management, Monitoring and Evaluation, effective from 01 March 2026.

"Congratulations. We wish you well in your appointment," said the MEC for Education, Sipho Hlomuka.

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, led by Deputy Director-General for Institutional Development and Support, Ms Weziwe Hadebe, conducted an infrastructure progress inspection at Dlilanga Technical High School under the uMkhanyakude District.

DDG Hadebe was accompanied by the District Director, Mr Thanduyise Motha, Regional Director for Public Works: North Coast Region, Zakhele Mahaye, as well as other key stakeholders, including the School Management Team and district officials.

During the visit, DDG Hadebe commended the school for its exceptional academic performance. Dlilanga Technical High School achieved an outstanding 100% pass rate in the 2025 National Senior Certificate examinations, despite operating from temporary parkhomes. She praised the resilience and dedication of both educators and learners.

A progress report presented by Seni Lukele indicated that the project has reached 90% completion. The new infrastructure includes 22 completed classrooms, a fully developed administration block, clear-vu perimeter fencing, ablution facilities, electrification, plumbing, and several additional amenities, with the official handover expected within the next three months.

Mr. Motha highlighted the significance of the project, noting that it aligns with the vision of the MEC for Education Sipho Hlomuka, who continues to prioritise the delivery of quality education infrastructure, particularly in rural communities such as those in uMkhanyakude.

The delegation conducted a physical inspection of the construction site to verify progress against departmental specifications. School Principal Hlengiwe Msimango expressed heartfelt appreciation for the development, stating that the school community eagerly anticipates the handover of the new facilities, which are expected to further enhance academic excellence.

DDG Hadebe concluded the visit by expressing gratitude to the contractor and the implementing agent for their commitment and progress in delivering a modern learning environment for the learners of Dlilanga Technical High School.

? Venue: Dlilanga Technical High School, uMkhanyakude District.

?️ Date: 13 March 2026.

#KZNEducation #EducationInfrastructure #BuildingForTheFuture #QualityEducation #uMkhanyakudeDistrict #DlilangaTechnicalHigh

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education has expressed satisfaction with the significant progress made in the construction of Dlilanga Technical High School during a recent infrastructural progress inspection.

The project, which is currently at 90% completion, reflects the department’s ongoing commitment to delivering modern, well-resourced learning environments that support quality education. The development features several high-quality infrastructural components, including an impressive boundary fence, multipurpose and specialist classrooms, a borehole and water tanker to ensure reliable water supply, a fully equipped media centre, storerooms, and other key facilities designed to enhance the teaching and learning experience.

The near completion of the school marks an important milestone in strengthening education infrastructure within the uMkhanyakude District and ensuring that learners have access to safe and conducive learning spaces.

Venue: Dlilanga Technical High School.

Date: 13 March 2026.

#KZNEducation #SchoolInfrastructure #BuildingForTheFuture #QualityLearningEnvironments #uMkhanyakudeDistrict #EducationDevelopment

WATCH | Ms. Seni. Lukele the Deputy Director for Programme Management under Public Works presenting the status report for the construction of Dlilanga Technical High School.

Venue: Dlilanga Technical High School, uMkhanyakude District.

Date: 13 March 2026.

WATCH | Deputy Director-General for Curriculum Management and Delivery, Mr Mbongiseni Mazibuko, outlines the objectives of the session as the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education hosts an Extended Planning and Strategic Workshop at Riverside Hotel.

Mr Mazibuko emphasised the importance of reviewing branch performance, strengthening operational management, and fostering a unified approach to teaching, learning, and assessment.

While progress has been made, he noted that addressing existing challenges through strategic and collaborative efforts remains critical to improving learner outcomes and enhancing system efficiency.

? Venue: Riverside Hotel.

?️ Date: 18 March 2026.

#KZNEducation #CurriculumDelivery #EducationLeadership #TeachingAndLearning #BuildingTheFuture

WATCH | Chief Director for Examination, Assessment, and Quality Assurance, Dr Raymond Penniston outlines key achievements and challenges in managing provincial assessments.

Dr Penniston highlighted the growth in candidates and emphasised the importance of supporting disadvantaged schools, which continue to show strong performance. He reflected on the roles of directorates in ensuring smooth examination operations.

He noted that question paper management, assessment oversight, and quality assurance remain critical, with challenges such as staffing shortages, unfunded mandates, and logistical hurdles affecting examination delivery and data accuracy. Despite these obstacles, robust processes have ensured secure printing, packing, and distribution of papers across districts.

? Venue: Riverside Hotel.

?️ Date: 18 March 2026.

#KZNEducation #CurriculumDelivery #EducationLeadership #TeachingAndLearning #BuildingTheFuture

The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, will preside over the uMkhanyakude District Matric Excellence Awards Celebration, hosted at Khaluni Special School.

This prestigious occasion honours the outstanding achievements of Matriculants across the district, recognising academic excellence, resilience, and dedication to success. It also serves as a platform to inspire current learners to strive for excellence and uphold the values of quality education.

The Department remains committed to celebrating and supporting learner achievement, while fostering a culture of excellence across all schools in KwaZulu-Natal.

#KZNEducation #MatricExcellence #uMkhanyakudeDistrict #EducationMatters #BuildingTheFuture

WATCH | The District Director for UMkhanyakude District, Mr. Thanduyise Motha as he shares appreciation to the DDG for Institutional Development and Support for the construction of Dlilanga Technical High School which is nearing completion under uMkhanyakude District.

Venue: Dlilanga Technical High School, uMkhanyakude District
Date: 13 March 2026

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The three-day Early Childhood Development (ECD) National Curriculum Framework Refresher Training concluded successfully today, bringing together education stakeholders for insightful, research-driven engagements aimed at strengthening early learning foundations.

Throughout the training, participants were equipped with updated knowledge and practical strategies to enhance the implementation of the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) across ECD centres. Subject Advisors will now play a pivotal role in supporting practitioners to effectively translate the NCF into meaningful learning experiences for young children.

Day three highlighted the Funda Udlale Nathi (FUN) programme, which encourages ECD practitioners to present activities in a playful and engaging manner, recognising that children learn best through play. The session also emphasised the importance of Early Grade Reading Instruction, underscoring the need to expose children to literacy from an early age to build strong reading foundations.

Districts will now develop implementation plans to train ECD practitioners and school principals with Grade R classes, ensuring consistent and effective application of the NCF principles across the province.

 Venue: Riverside Hotel, Durban

Date: 13 March 2026

#KZNEducation #ECD #NationalCurriculumFramework #EarlyLearning #FundaUdlaleNathi #EarlyGradeReading #BuildingStrongFoundations #GrowingFutureLeaders

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, in partnership with the Department of Basic Education, successfully hosted the BEEI Phase V Close-Out Workshop in uMhlanga, bringing together key stakeholders from across the country to reflect on the achievements and impact of the programme in supporting youth employment and strengthening the education sector.

The Department of Basic Education delegation was led by Deputy Director-General for Business Intelligence and Project Sponsor, S. G. Padayachee, who delivered the opening remarks. In his address, he highlighted that the programme has created meaningful employment opportunities for young people across all provinces, making it one of the most impactful youth empowerment initiatives within the education sector.

Delivering the welcome address, the Deputy Director-General for Corporate Services, Bheki Masuku, emphasised that the initiative was introduced during a time when many young people were facing high unemployment and limited opportunities. He explained that the programme served as a critical intervention to support youth while also strengthening the education system.

DDG Masuku further noted that through the initiative, Education Assistants were placed in schools across the province, providing vital support to educators. Their responsibilities included assisting teachers with integrating technology into classrooms and contributing to the development of smart schools, while also gaining valuable workplace experience.

He also acknowledged the many success stories that have emerged from the programme and encouraged participants to continue making meaningful contributions in their future endeavours. He reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to empowering young people and improving the quality of education in the province.

The workshop continued with presentations from a panel of officials representing all provinces. Discussions reflected on lessons learned throughout the implementation of the programme, highlighting achievements while identifying areas for improvement.

Delegates were also divided into commissions to deliberate on key focus areas, including:
• Governance, systems and compliance
• Programme design, policy alignment, impact and quality improvement
• Supervision and the programme’s impact on teaching and learning

Venue: aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga.

Date: 12 March 2026.

#KZNDoE #DBE #BEEIPhaseV #PresidentialEmploymentStimulus #YouthEmpowerment #EducationForEmployment #BuildingTheFuture #LeaveNoLearnerBehind

The two-day BBI Phase V Close-Out Workshop concluded successfully at the aha Gateway Hotel Umhlanga, marking an important milestone in strengthening collaborative efforts to support education and youth employment initiatives.

Hosted by the Department of Basic Education in partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, the workshop brought together key stakeholders to reflect on the progress and impact of the programme.

Day Two focused on reflecting on discussions and activities from the first day while consolidating lessons learnt and strategies moving forward. In her closing remarks, the National Project Manager, Lala Maje emphasised that the programme remains the largest initiative of its kind in the country, playing a critical role in empowering young people through education-related employment opportunities. She extended heartfelt appreciation to all participants for their commitment and contribution, noting that the workshop had been a resounding success.

The workshop forms part of ongoing efforts under the Basic Education Employment Initiative Phase V, implemented through the Presidential Employment Stimulus, aimed at supporting schools while creating meaningful opportunities for youth across the country.

Venue: Aha Gateway Hotel, Umhlanga.

Date: 14 March 2026.

#KZNDoE #DBE #BBIPhaseV #PresidentialEmploymentStimulus #EducationForEmployment #BuildingTheFuture #LeavingNoLearnerBehind

Veyisi Primary School proudly welcomed a delegation from a United Kingdom university during a special engagement aimed at fostering international collaboration in education.

The visit was hosted by the school principal, Ms Shabalala, who warmly received the delegation and introduced them to the school’s leadership team.

She was joined by Mr Mbatha, BSB – Intersen Departmental Head, and Senior Educator, Ms Thethwayo, who is responsible for the Foundation Phase Department. The engagement provided an opportunity for meaningful dialogue on teaching practices, curriculum development, and the strengthening of partnerships that support quality learning and teaching.

The visit also highlighted the commitment of schools within the uThukela District’s Elandslaagte Circuit to building global relationships that enrich the educational experience for both educators and learners.

Venue: Veyisi Primary School, Elandslaagte Circuit, uThukela District
Date: 13 March 2026

#KZNEducation #GlobalPartnerships #QualityEducation #TeachingExcellence #uThukelaDistrict #FoundationPhase #EducationCollaboration

WATCH | Mr Thandanani Mavundla, Chief Education Specialist: ELITS, emphasizing parental involvement and strategies to promote an ECD stakeholder.

"We would like to have officials and teachers who have followers as far as reading and literacy is concerned"

Date: 11 March 2027

Venue: Riverside Hotel, Durban.

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The Early Childhood Development (ECD) National Curriculum Framework (NCF) Refresher Training continues to empower educators with critical knowledge and skills to support young learners.

WATCH | Dr B Mhlongo shared valuable insights on managing the transition from Pre-Grade R to Grade R and from Grade R to Grade 1. He emphasised the importance of creating supportive learning environments that help children adapt comfortably and confidently as they move between these key developmental stages.

The session highlighted practical strategies to ensure continuity in learning and to strengthen foundational skills during the early years of education.

?Venue: Riverside Hotel, Durban.

?️ Date: 12 March 2026.

#KZNDoE #ECDDevelopment #NCFTraining #FoundationPhase #QualityEducation #BuildingStrongFoundations

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WATCH | The KZNDOE'S  uMlazi District Director, Ms Busi Mahlambi, provided an update on infrastructure delivery during a site progress inspection at Bantuvukani Primary School.

Despite challenging circumstances, Ms Mahlambi highlighted that the construction team has remained focused and effective in ensuring steady progress on the project. She commended the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders involved in advancing infrastructure development aimed at creating a conducive learning environment for learners.

The visit forms part of ongoing monitoring efforts by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education to ensure that infrastructure projects are delivered efficiently and meet the required standards.

? Venue: Bantuvukani Primary School.

?️ Date: 12 March 2026

#SchoolInfrastructure #KZNEducation #BuildingForTheFuture #EducationDevelopment #ServiceDelivery

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The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education conducted a comprehensive site progress inspection at Bantuvukani Primary School in the uMlazi District on 12 March 2026, reaffirming its commitment to delivering safe and conducive learning environments for learners.

The inspection was led by Chief Director Mr Raymond Sithole, uMlazi District Director Ms Busi Mahlambi, DBSA Head of Infrastructure Delivery Ms Mamarinyana Ratsaka, Programme Manager Mr Vusi Khumalo, and School Principal Mr Mbuso Sosibo, together with head office officials.

The engagement focused on reviewing the progress of ongoing renovations and construction at the school. Ms Mahlambi commended the progress made thus far, noting that the repairs and construction work were satisfactory. She emphasised that the Department remains committed to ensuring that schools provide an environment that supports effective teaching and learning through collaborative efforts.

Principal Mr Mbuso Sosibo expressed appreciation for the improvements, highlighting that the developments have helped restore dignity to the school, its learners, and the surrounding community.

The visit concluded with a site walkabout, allowing officials to verify the progress of construction and assess the ongoing work on the ground. The inspection reflects the Department’s continued dedication to strengthening infrastructure and improving learning conditions across the province.

Venue: Bantuvukani Primary School, uMlazi District.
Date: 12 March 2026.

#KZNDoE #uMlaziDistrict #EducationInfrastructure #ServiceDelivery #BuildingBetterSchools #EducationUpdate

MORE PICTURES | The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, in collaboration with the Ugu District Municipality, hosted the Ugu District National Senior Certificate (NSC) 2025 Excellence Awards to recognise outstanding academic achievements and celebrate the collective efforts that continue to drive educational success in the district.

? Venue: Ugu Sports and Leisure Centre, Ugu District

?️ Date: 11 March 2026

#KZNDoE #UGUDistrict #NSC2025 #ExcellenceAwards #AcademicExcellence #QualityEducation #BuildingTheFuture #GrowingKZNTogether

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, in collaboration with the Ugu District Municipality, hosted the Ugu District National Senior Certificate (NSC) 2025 Excellence Awards to recognise outstanding academic achievements and celebrate the collective efforts that continue to drive educational success in the district.

Councillor Sizwe Ngcobo, representing Ugu District Municipality, welcomed guests to the prestigious ceremony, while Mr Mlingani Zinya, Chief Education Specialist for the Umzumbe Circuit, formally introduced attendees.

Ugu District Director, Mr Nkosinathi Madadi, highlighted that the awards ceremony serves to acknowledge the remarkable academic performance achieved across the district. He emphasised that the district’s success is the result of teamwork, collaboration, and dedication from educators, district officials, and stakeholders who consistently work together to improve learning outcomes.

Educators were commended for going beyond their normal responsibilities to support learners and ensure quality education despite challenges faced by the sector. Mr Madadi noted that excellence is driven by commitment, strong leadership, and high standards rather than geographical location or resources.

The district continues to show steady improvement, with the pass rate increasing from 91.7% in 2024 to 91.8% in 2025, ranking fourth in the province. Additional milestones included the introduction of Agricultural Sciences at two schools, an increase in bachelor passes from 5 800 in 2024 to 6 000 in 2025, and growth in Grade 12 enrolment from 10 000 to 11 700 learners. All 17 circuits achieved pass rates above 85%, with learner progress closely monitored from the GET to the FET phases.

Deputy Director-General for Corporate Services, Adv Bheki Masuku, expressed appreciation to teacher unions and education stakeholders for their continued support in strengthening the education system. He highlighted the district’s consistent improvement trajectory, noting pass rates of 89.5% in 2023, 91.7% in 2024, and 91.8% in 2025, reflecting strong leadership and dedication across the district.

His Worship Mayor of Ugu District Municipality, Cllr Sikhumbuzo Mqadi, reaffirmed the importance of strong intergovernmental collaboration in advancing education and pledged continued partnership with the Department of Education to achieve even greater success.

Several schools, circuits, educators, and learners were honoured across various award categories, recognising exceptional academic performance, subject excellence, and overall learner achievement. The ceremony also acknowledged departmental officials and stakeholders who continue to support and strengthen education across the district.

The 2025 Excellence Awards reflected the district’s unwavering commitment to quality education, collaboration, and ensuring that no learner is left behind as Ugu District continues to strive for even greater academic success.

Venue: Ugu Sports and Leisure Centre, Ugu District

Date: 11 March 2026

#KZNDoE #UGUDistrict #NSC2025 #ExcellenceAwards #AcademicExcellence #QualityEducation #BuildingTheFuture #GrowingKZNTogether

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education’s Deputy Director General for Institutional Development, Ms Weziwe Hadebe, conducted an infrastructure project site inspection at Thembalethu High School in the Harry Gwala District as part of ongoing efforts to monitor construction progress and ensure compliance with project specifications and quality standards.

The DDG was accompanied by the Harry Gwala District Director, Mrs Bongiwe Ntombela, district officials, Greater Kokstad CMC Mr Cedric Mseleku, infrastructure officials, and the contractor implementation agent, Coega Development Corporation, together with the Principal Agent Imvelo Quantity Surveyors.

Ms Hadebe highlighted that the visit was aligned with the commitment made by the MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, during the provincial budget address that the school would be completed and ready to commence operations in April. She further noted that, as the project falls within the current financial year, the Department of Basic Education (DBE) is expected to conduct oversight to ensure that all facilities meet the required infrastructure standards.

Once completed, Thembalethu High School will feature 30 classrooms, including specialised classrooms equipped with whiteboards, a science laboratory, a library, and other essential learning facilities designed to enhance teaching and learning.

The project has also contributed to local economic development, creating employment opportunities for the surrounding community, with more than 1,000 residents benefiting from job opportunities during the construction phase.

During the inspection, the DDG conducted a walkabout across the construction site to physically verify the progress of the infrastructure development and ensure that the work undertaken aligns with the approved project specifications.

 Venue: Thembalethu High School, Harry Gwala District, KwaZulu-Natal

Date: 11 March 2026

#KZNEducation #InfrastructureDevelopment #SchoolInfrastructure #QualityEducation #HarryGwalaDistrict #BuildingForTheFuture #EducationInfrastructure

WATCH | Thembalethu High School Principal, Ms Nolikwa Magwaza, shares heartfelt gratitude to the Deputy Director General for Institutional Development, Ms Weziwe Hadebe, and the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education for answering the community’s long-standing call for a new school.

She describes the development of Thembalethu High School as a dream finally taking shape, bringing renewed hope to the community and opening the doors to a brighter future for generations of learners who will now have access to a modern learning environment.

Venue: Thembalethu High School, Harry Gwala District
Date: 11 March 2026

#KZNDoE
#HarryGwalaDistrict
#InfrastructureDevelopment #QualityEducation #BuildingTheFuture #EducationInfrastructure


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WATCH | Thembalethu High School Principal, Ms Nolikwa Magwaza, shares heartfelt gratitude to the Deputy Director General for Institutional Development, Ms Weziwe Hadebe, and the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education for answering the community’s long-standing call for a new school.

She describes the development of Thembalethu High School as a dream finally taking shape, bringing renewed hope to the community and opening the doors to a brighter future for generations of learners who will now have access to a modern learning environment.

Venue: Thembalethu High School, Harry Gwala District
Date: 11 March 2026

#KZNDoE
#HarryGwalaDistrict
#InfrastructureDevelopment #QualityEducation #BuildingTheFuture #EducationInfrastructure


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WATCH | Greater Kokstad Circuit Manager, Mr Cedric Mseleku, speaks on behalf of the circuit to express sincere appreciation to the Deputy Director General for Institutional Development, Ms Weziwe Hadebe, and the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education for prioritising the construction of Thembalethu High School.

He conveys the circuit’s deepest gratitude for the Department’s commitment to strengthening education infrastructure, noting that the new school will greatly improve learning conditions and bring lasting benefits to the community.

Venue: Thembalethu High School, Harry Gwala District

Date: 11 March 2026

#KZNDoE

#HarryGwalaDistrict

#InfrastructureDevelopment #QualityEducation  #BuildingTheFuture #EducationInfrastructure

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WATCH | The Ugu District, in collaboration with the Ugu Municipality, celebrates and recognises excellence during the NSC 2025 Excellence Awards ceremony, honouring outstanding academic achievement and dedication from learners, educators, and schools across the district.

Venue: Ugu Sports and Leisure Centre
Date: 11 March 2025

#KZNDoE #UGUDistrict #NSC2025 #ExcellenceAwards #AcademicExcellence #QualityEducation #BuildingTheFuture #GrowingKZNTogether


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WATCH | Architect Mr Mpendulo Shangase presented the design plans for the new Corinth Primary School, showcasing the vision behind the development and highlighting the dedication and expertise involved in delivering quality education infrastructure.

During the presentation, Mr Shangase outlined the architectural design and planning processes while also explaining some of the challenges that have contributed to delays in the project. His detailed briefing demonstrated the extensive work required to ensure that the new school meets all required specifications and standards.
The project forms part of the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education’s ongoing commitment to improving school infrastructure and creating safe, modern, and conducive learning environments for learners across the province.

Venue: Corinth Primary School, Harry Gwala District
Date: 11 March 2026

#KZNDoE #InfrastructureDevelopment #QualityEducation #SchoolInfrastructure #HarryGwalaDistrict #BuildingTheFuture

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WATCH | The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education Deputy Director-General for Corporate Services, Adv Bheki Masuku, delivered a message of congratulations during the Ugu District NSC 2025 Excellence Awards, commending the district for its continued achievement of outstanding academic results.

Adv Masuku applauded the collective dedication, commitment, and strong leadership demonstrated across the district, noting that the province is immensely proud of the consistent performance and unwavering commitment to academic excellence.

He further acknowledged the vital role played by school principals, educators, and education stakeholders whose collaboration and dedication continue to strengthen learner performance and drive quality education throughout the district.

The DDG also expressed sincere appreciation to the Ugu Municipality for its partnership, support, and presence at the event, emphasising the importance of strong collaboration between government and local stakeholders in advancing education.

In his address, Adv Masuku encouraged the district to remain focused and united in its mission, highlighting the province’s ambitious targets for 2026 and expressing confidence in the calibre, resilience, and potential of the learners.

He emphasised that through continued teamwork, commitment, and perseverance, the district will continue to reach even greater heights of excellence.

? Venue: Ugu Sports and Leisure Centre.

?️ Date: 11 March 2026.

#KZNDoE #UguDistrict #NSCExcellence #ExcellenceAwards #ClassOf2025 #QualityEducation #GrowingKZNTogether

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WATCH | The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education continues to intensify academic support through the T40 & T70 Schools Support Programme in the uMzinyathi District Municipality.

During the engagement, Phumelela Nkosi unpacked a detailed presentation designed to equip school principals with critical performance data. The session focused on empowering school leadership with the necessary insights to analyse learner outcomes, identify areas requiring intervention, and implement targeted strategies to improve schools’ pass percentages.

The programme forms part of ongoing efforts by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education to strengthen school leadership, enhance accountability, and support underperforming schools in achieving improved academic results.

Venue: Sarel Cilliers High School, uMzinyathi District.

Date: 09 March 2026.
#KZNEducation #UMzinyathiDistrict #SchoolSupportProgramme #T40T70Schools #ImprovingResults #EducationExcellence

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The Labour Management Programme commissioned by the Education Labour Relations Council (ELRC) was successfully convened on 06 March 2026 in the King Cetshwayo District held at Veldenvlei Primary School.

The programme brought together educators and stakeholders from Ekuphakameni Primary School and Sphumelele Secondary School, alongside labour formations South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) and National Teachers' Union (NATU).
The engagement focused on strengthening collaboration between labour and management, fostering constructive dialogue, and reinforcing effective labour relations within the education sector.

The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to build a cooperative environment that supports educators and enhances the delivery of quality education in schools across the district.

Venue: Veldenvlei Primary School, King Cetshwayo District.
Date: 06 March 2026.

#GrowingKwaZuluNatalTogether #KZNEducation #LabourRelations #EducationPartnerships #BuildingStrongSchools

The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, attended the tabling of the Provincial Budget by the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Finance, Mr Francois Rodgers, in the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature main precinct.

The annual budget presentation outlines the province’s financial priorities and allocations for the upcoming financial year, guiding service delivery and development across all Government Departments.

The presence of the Education MEC underscores the sector’s commitment to aligning its programmes with the provincial fiscal framework to strengthen education outcomes and support the continued development of schools across KwaZulu-Natal.

 Venue: KwaZulu-Natal Legislature Main Precinct, Pietermaritzburg.

 Date: 10 March 2026.

#KZNBudget2026 #GrowingKZNTogether #KZNEducation #PublicService #ServiceDelivery 

WATCH | The Head of Department for the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, Mr. Nkosinathi Ngcobo has arrived at Sarel Cilliers High School for the prestigious awards ceremony celebrating the Class of 2025 in the uMzinyathi District.

The Head of Department was warmly welcomed by the District Director for uMzinyathi, Mr. Sphiwe Kheswa.

Stay tuned for the day’s proceedings.

Venue: Sarel Cilliers High School, uMzinyathi District.
Date: 06 March 2026.
#KZNDOE
#uMzinyathiDistrict #NSCExcellenceAwards #ClassOf2025

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The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education is today hosting the Provincial Athletics Championships Finals at the iconic Kings Park Athletics Stadium, where the province’s top school athletes are competing for a place on the KwaZulu-Natal team.

Watch | Learners in the Under-16 to Under-23 categories are battling it out on the track, aiming to achieve the required qualifying standard times while striving for podium finishes. The championships provide a crucial platform for young athletes to showcase their talent, determination, and competitive spirit as they pursue selection to represent the province at the upcoming national championships.

The event reflects the Department’s continued commitment to promoting school sport, youth development, and excellence in athletics, while nurturing the next generation of sporting talent in KwaZulu-Natal.

Venue: Kings Park Athletics Stadium.

Date: 08 March 2026.

#KZNEducation #SchoolSport #ProvincialAthletics #FutureChampions #TeamKZN #LearnerExcellence #SchoolAthletics

https://youtu.be/xP31QbKOWfE?si=-Be3lFfRtA0--xQF

Building on the momentum of collaboration.

​As we waved goodbye to February, we are celebrating the incredible strides made across our province through the power of strategic partnerships. From classroom resources to district leadership, this edition captures the heart of KwaZulu-Natal’s educational growth.

​Get the inside scoop on the success stories and milestones that defined our month:

https://heyzine.com/flip-book/5e82cf3e0b.html

​#KZNDOE #StrategicPartnerships #EducationalExcellence #KZN #EduNews #2026Vision #MovingForward

WATCH | Ms Thembelihle Gumede, Chief Director for District Operations Management, engages with Circuit Management Centers under the T70 and T80 Schools Support Programme, offering guidance and support to teachers and school leadership. She reminded the meeting that KwaZulu-Natal remains number one in the country, emphasizing that this achievement was no accident and encouraging educators to continue their dedicated efforts.

Ms Gumede also highlighted the importance of practical strategies to address underperformance, strengthen classroom management, and enhance learning outcomes, while reinforcing collaboration among educators to ensure sustainable academic improvement across the district.

Venue: Pholela Special School, Harry Gwala District.
Date: 04 March 2026.

#KZNDOE #HarryGwalaDistrict #SchoolSupportProgramme #TeacherSupport #AcademicExcellence #ProudlyKZN

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The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, through its Institutional Development Support branch, continues to intensify targeted interventions aimed at improving learner performance in underperforming schools across the province.

As part of this effort, the Chief Directors for District Operations Management, Dr David Chonco and Ms Thembelihle Gumede, conducted their fourth district support visit in the Harry Gwala District Municipality.

The District Director, Mrs Bongiwe Ntombela, convened a strategic engagement with seven Circuit Management Centres to strengthen support for schools that underperformed during the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examination session. The programme specifically targets three circuits with significant underperformance, while the remaining Circuit Managers participated to provide collaborative support and share best practices. Currently, four schools within the district are identified as underperforming.

The engagement focused on developing a clear recovery plan to improve academic outcomes. Circuit and school leadership were required to account for the factors that contributed to the underperformance, allowing the Department to identify root causes and formulate practical mitigation strategies. Strong emphasis was placed on honest reflection, accountability, and the implementation of corrective measures to prevent recurrence.

Both Chief Directors delivered comprehensive presentations highlighting strategic interventions designed to strengthen teaching and learning. These include the implementation of Social Enrichment Programmes to enhance learner support, while reinforcing the pivotal leadership role of school principals in driving school improvement and academic excellence.

The Department remains committed to providing structured and sustained support to T70 and T80 schools to ensure measurable progress and long-term academic improvement across the district.

Venue: Pholela Special School.

Date: 04 March 2026.

#KZNEducation #AcademicRecovery #T70T80Support #NSCImprovement #DistrictSupport #EducationLeadership #QualityEducation #HarryGwalaDistrict #LeaveNoLearnerBehind

Uhulumeni wesiFundazwe saKwaZulu-Natal, ngaphansi kobuholi bukaNdunankulu Thami Ntuli kanye neKhabhinethi yakhe, namuhla bahambele iSifunda uMgungundlovu ngaphansi kohlelo luka-Operation Sukuma Sakhe, ngenhloso yokuqinisa ukulethwa kwezinsiza emphakathini nokusheshisa intuthuko.

UMhlonishwa Sipho Hlomuka, onguNgqongqoshe wezeMfundo, ehambisana neNhloko yoMnyango kwaPublic Works, uDkt Vish Govender, bahambele uWard 5 eNhlazuka ngaphansi kukaMasipala waseRichmond.

Uhlelo luqale eMadlanyoka High School lapho kubanjwe khona umhlangano nezinhlaka zikahulumeni ezivela eminyangweni ehlukahlukene. UMeya, uCllr M.K. Ngcongo, wethule umbiko weWard, kanti uThishomkhulu, uMnu Dladla, wethule umbiko wesikole, echaza ngenqubekelaphambili, ukusebenza kwesikole kanye nezinselelo ezikhona. Uphinde wagcizelela ukuthi umsebenzi wokwakha ususondele ekuphothulweni.

UNgqongqoshe Hlomuka ugcizelele ukubaluleka kokuvakashela izikole mathupha ukuze kubonakale izinselelo zangempela nokuthi kuthathwe izinyathelo ezisheshayo. Ithimba liphinde lahlola umsebenzi wokwakha oqhubekayo, okulindeleke ukuthi uphele maduze.

Ithimba libe seliqhubekela phambili emhlanganweni omkhulu kaNdunankulu ukuyokwethula imibiko yezindawo ezihambele zona.

Indawo: Madlanyoka High School.

Usuku: 04 Mashi 2026.

#UhulumeniWaKZN

#IKhabhinethiIsebenzelaAbantu

#OperationSukumaSakhe

#OSS

#DDM

#uMgungundlovu

#IKZNDOE

#PublicWorksKZN

#UkulethwaKwezinsiza

#IntuthukoYomphakathi

OSS / DDM Cabinet Day Drives Integrated Service Delivery in uMgungundlovu District

The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government, led by Premier Thami Ntuli and Members of the Executive Council, today conducted an oversight and community engagement visit to the uMgungundlovu District under the Operation Sukuma Sakhe programme.

The MEC for Education, Sipho Hlomuka, accompanied by the Head of Department for Public Works, Dr Vish Govender, visited Ward 5 in Nhlazuka under the Richmond Local Municipality.

The programme commenced at Madlanyoka High School, where the MEC convened a strategic engagement session with representatives from various government departments. During the meeting, the Mayor, Cllr M.K. Ngcongo, presented the Ward report, while the School Principal, Mr Dladla, delivered a comprehensive overview of the school’s performance, progress, and existing challenges. He further highlighted that infrastructure development at the school is nearing completion.

MEC Hlomuka reaffirmed the importance of conducting on-site visits to schools across the province to gain first-hand insight into service delivery challenges and to accelerate sustainable community development. The delegation also conducted an inspection of the ongoing construction work, which is expected to be finalised soon.

The delegation subsequently proceeded to the Premier’s main community engagement session to consolidate and present feedback from the areas visited.

Venue: Madlanyoka High School.

Date: 04 March 2026.

#KZNGovernment
#OSS
#DDM
#OperationSukumaSakhe
#CabinetDay2026
#uMgungundlovuDistrict
#KZNDOE
#PublicWorksKZN
#IntegratedServiceDelivery
#BuildingStrongerCommunities

As part of the OSS/DDM Cabinet Day Programme in uMgungundlovu District, a comprehensive War Room report was presented by Cllr M.K. Ngcongo at Madlanyoka High School, outlining key service delivery challenges and coordinated government interventions.

Key Challenges Identified:

• Poor maintenance of access roads P115 and P728
• Unreliable water supply and the need for upgrading of the water scheme
• Dilapidated and non-functional Thusong Centre
• Lack of tarred roads
• Stock theft affecting local farmers
• Substance abuse among youth
• Foot and mouth disease impacting livestock
• Incidents of burglary
• Faction fights among learners, particularly after school hours
• Lack of sports facilities in the area
• High unemployment rate

Interventions Underway:

• Blacktopping of D115 and D158 by the Department of Transport
• Repairs and revitalisation of the Thusong Centre by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) and COGTA
• Law enforcement intervention by South African Police Service

The OSS/DDM Cabinet Day, led by Premier Thami Ntuli and Members of the Executive Council, continues to promote integrated planning, rapid response mechanisms, and strengthened intergovernmental collaboration to accelerate service delivery at community level.

Venue: Madlanyoka High School

Date: 04 March 2026.

#KZNGovernment
#OSS
#DDM
#CabinetDay2026
#IntegratedServiceDelivery
#OperationSukumaSakhe
#uMgungundlovuDistrict
#CommunityInterventions
#BuildingSaferCommunities
#LeaveNoOneBehind

Umhlonishwa uMEC weZemfundo usefikile eMid-Illovo, eMahlamvini, ngaphansi kobuholi beNkosi uMkhize, njengengxenye yoHlelo luka-Operation Sukuma Sakhe (OSS) oluhambisana ne-District Development Model (DDM). Lolu hlelo luhambele isiFunda saseMgungundlovu ngenhloso yokuqinisa ukubambisana kukahulumeni nemiphakathi ekulethweni kwezinsiza ngendlela ehlelekile nenomthelela.

Lo mcimbi ububanjelwe eMadlanyoka High School, eMgungundlovu District, lapho uMEC ehlangane khona nabaholi bendabuko, izikhulu zikahulumeni kanye namalungu omphakathi ukuze kuqiniswe ukubambisana ekuthuthukiseni izikole nemiphakathi.

Indawo: Madlanyoka High School, uMgungundlovu District.

Usuku: 04 Mashi 2026.

#SisebenzisanaNgentuthuko #OperationSukumaSakhe #DDM #UMgungundlovuDistrict

MEC FOR EDUCATION PARTICIPATES IN OSS/DDM CABINET DAY IN UMGUNGUNDLOVU DISTRICT

The Honourable MEC for Education visited Mid-Illovo in Mahlamvini, under the leadership of Inkosi Mkhize, as part of the Operation Sukuma Sakhe (OSS) programme aligned to the District Development Model (DDM). The initiative formed part of the OSS/DDM Cabinet Day activities in the uMgungundlovu District, aimed at strengthening integrated service delivery and enhancing collaboration between government and communities.

The engagement took place at Madlanyoka High School, where the MEC interacted with traditional leaders, government officials, and community members to reinforce partnerships focused on improving education and accelerating community development.

Venue: Madlanyoka High School, uMgungundlovu District.

Date: 04 March 2026

#OSS #DistrictDevelopmentModel #UMgungundlovuDistrict #IntegratedServiceDelivery

BUKELA | Uhulumeni waKwaZulu-Natal ngaphansi kobuholi bukaNdunankulu Thami Ntuli uvakashele iSifunda uMgungundlovu ngaphansi kohlelo lukaSukuma Sakhe.

UNgqongqoshe wezeMfundo, Sipho Hlomuka, kanye neNhloko yoMnyango wePublic Works, Vish Govender, bavakashele eMadlanyoka High School, eWard 5 ngaphansi kukaMasipala waseRichmond.

Kubanjwe umhlangano nezikhulu zikahulumeni lapho kwethulwe khona imibiko yeWard neyesikole. Ithimba liphinde labheka umsebenzi wokwakha oqhubekayo esikoleni, okulindeleke ukuthi uphele maduze.

Indawo: Madlanyoka High School

Usuku: 04 March 2026

#KZNDOE

#PublicWorks

#SukumaSakhe

#CabinetDay

#uMgungundlovu

#MadlanyokaHighSchool

#ServiceDelivery

OSS / DDM Cabinet Day Accelerates Service Delivery in uMgungundlovu District

WATCH | The KwaZulu-Natal Government, under the leadership of Premier Thami Ntuli, continues to strengthen frontline service delivery through Operation Sukuma Sakhe in the uMgungundlovu District.

The MEC for Education, Sipho Hlomuka, together with the Head of Department for Public Works, Mr Vish Govender, visited Madlanyoka High School in Ward 5 under the Richmond Local Municipality. The leadership engaged with government officials, received ward and school reports, and assessed the progress of ongoing infrastructure developments at the school.

Venue: Madlanyoka High School.

Date: 04 March 2026.

#KZNGovernment
#CabinetDay2026
#OperationSukumaSakhe
#ServiceDeliveryInAction
#uMgungundlovuDistrict
#KZNDOE
#PublicWorksKZN
#BuildingBetterCommunities

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The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, today participated in the post-State of the Province Address (SOPA) debate at the Pietermaritzburg City Hall.

During the engagement, the MEC reaffirmed the Department’s unwavering commitment to strengthening academic performance across all grades, intensifying support for teaching and learning, and ensuring that every learner in KwaZulu-Natal receives quality education.

The Department remains resolute in translating the priorities outlined in SOPA 2026 into measurable classroom success, improved learner outcomes, and sustained excellence across the province.

Venue: Pietermaritzburg City Hall.

Date: 03 March 2026.

#KZNDOE #SOPA2026 #DeliveringExcellence #QualityEducationForAll #KZNExcellence

During the 2026 State of the Province Address, the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Thamsanqa Ntuli, presented a clear and action-oriented roadmap anchored on inclusive economic growth, large-scale infrastructure investment, job creation, and sustainable development.

The address outlined the strategic priorities of the Government of Provincial Unity, with a strong emphasis on strengthening service delivery, enhancing public safety, stimulating local economies, and restoring public confidence in governance.

The Province remains resolute in its commitment to building a resilient, prosperous and united KwaZulu-Natal — leaving no community behind.

Woodburn Rugby Stadium, Pietermaritzburg.

?️ 27 February 2026.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EyCfENROEsbCHuCUX4G9S3c-v2NY6DZn/view?usp=drivesdk

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#SOPA2026 #KZNInspiringNewHope #BuildingKZN #InclusiveGrowth #InfrastructureDevelopment #CommunityFirst #Governance

IThumumlilo Foundation, Themba Njilo Foundation, SAPS, Telkom Foundation, Go Digital SA Foundation, Moses Kotane Institute, behambisana noMnyango weZemfundo KwaZulu-Natal, banohlelo lokulekelela abafundi ngezinsiza ukuze baphumelele.

Lokhu kuhloswe ngakho ukukhuphula izinga lokuphasa kubafundi ukuze bakwazi ukuthola amathuba angcono okungena emanyuvesi.

UMnumzane BuhlebeNkosi Khuzwayo noMphathi wesiyingi saseGingindlovu umukele izihambeli kulomcimbi, "siyathembisa sizokwenza kakhulu, sesikhuphule nebesizikalele kona kumatikuletsheni ngenxa yoxhaso esilutholayo," kubeka uMnumzane Gumede.

Izikole eziyishumi ngaphansi kwesiyingi iGingindlovu zizothola amaSim Card angalidingi idatha ukuze bafunde kwi Lightbulb sizindalwazi.

Nkosazana Nonhlanhla Buthelezi ophuma kwi Thumumlilo Foundation, uthembise ukuletha eduzane konke okungasiza abantwana abafunda ezokoleni ezisemakhaya ukuze nabo bathole amathuba afanayo nalabo abasezindaweni ezisemadolobheni.
Inkosi yesizwe saseMacambini izwakalise ukweseka othisha kanye nabafundi. Inkosi izwakalise ukuziqhenya ngomfundi wase Mathubesizwe High school, uSenamile Thabede owenze kahle kakhulu kumatikuletsheni ngo 2025 wabeka indawo yaseMacambini ebalazweni.

Obekhulumela uMnyango weZemfundo KwaZulu-Natal, uSekela Mqondisi Jikele, uMnumzane Mbongiseni Mazibuko, ubonge kakhulu abaxhasi bomcimbi nakho konke okuhle abazokwenzela abafundi ukuze baphumelele. "Uma ufunga enhlizweni yakho ukuthi uzophikelela yize noma kunzima, impela uzophumelela," kubeka uMnumzane Mazibuko.

Indawo: Bethel Mission, Ilembe District.
Usuku: 26 Nhlolanja 2026.

#KZNDOE
#SAPS
#IThumumliloFoundation
#ThembaNjiloFoundation
#TelkomFoundation
#GoDigitalSAFoundation
#MosesKotaneInstitute



Student Support Initiative Empowers Learners in Ilembe District

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, in partnership with IThumumlilo Foundation, Themba Njilo Foundation, SAPS, Telkom Foundation, Go Digital SA Foundation, and Moses Kotane Institute, launched a student support programme in the Ilembe District on 26 February 2026 at Bethel Mission. The initiative provides essential resources to help learners succeed academically and improve pass rates, enabling greater access to higher education opportunities.

Mr BuhlebeNkosi Khuzwayo and the Gingindlovu Circuit Manager welcomed stakeholders, with Mr Gumede highlighting the commitment to enhancing learner performance through ongoing support and resources provided by the programme.

Ten schools under the Gingindlovu Circuit will receive SIM cards with data-free access to the Lightbulb learning platform, ensuring rural learners benefit equally alongside their urban counterparts.

Ms Nonhlanhla Buthelezi from IThumumlilo Foundation pledged continued support to provide tools and resources that empower learners in rural areas. The Macambini Traditional Authority expressed pride in outstanding students, including Senamile Thabede of Mathubesizwe High School, whose exceptional 2025 results highlighted the district on the national map.

Speaking on behalf of the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, Deputy Director Jikele, Mr Mbongiseni Mazibuko, thanked sponsors and emphasised the value of perseverance and dedication for student success: “If you commit wholeheartedly and persevere despite challenges, you will succeed.”

? Venue: Bethel Mission, Ilembe District.

?️ Date: 26 February 2026.
#KZNDOE #StudentSupport #LearnerEmpowerment #IlembeDistrict #EducationExcellence #SAPS #IThumumliloFoundation #ThembaNjiloFoundation #TelkomFoundation #GoDigitalSAFoundation #MosesKotaneInstitute

UK University Delegation Strengthens Global Education Partnership at Mashobane Secondary School

Mashobane Secondary School in the Matiwane area, under the Elandslaagte Circuit of the uThukela District, recently hosted a collaborative engagement with a delegation from a United Kingdom University.

The visit formed part of ongoing efforts to strengthen 12international partnerships, promote knowledge exchange, and broaden global exposure for both learners and educators.

Led by Principal Ms K.G. Zwane, the School Management Team — including Departmental Heads Ms X.E. Zwane and Ms Zulu — warmly received the delegation and facilitated meaningful engagements centred on innovative teaching methodologies, learner support strategies, nature conservation, and academic development.

The interaction created a valuable platform for professional dialogue, enabling the exchange of best practices while inspiring learners through discussions on higher education pathways and global academic opportunities.

This collaboration was positively received by all stakeholders and is anticipated to make a meaningful contribution to teaching and learning at Mashobane Secondary School. The initiative underscores the critical role of strategic partnerships in advancing quality education and equipping learners with a global outlook.

Venue: Mashobane Secondary School, Matiwane Area, Elandslaagte Circuit, uThukela District.

Date: 28 February 2026.

#GrowingPartnerships

#GlobalEducation

#QualityLearning

#uThukelaDistrict

#InternationalCollaboration

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The Elandslaagte Circuit, under the leadership of Circuit Manager Ms N. Mlotshwa, proudly hosted the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) Excellence Awards on 27 February 2026 at the Crown Hotel Ladysmith, recognising outstanding learner achievement, exceptional educators, and high-performing schools.

The ceremony forms part of the Circuit’s strategic focus on fostering academic excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement, aligned with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education’s priorities. It highlighted the importance of disciplined teaching and learning, collaborative leadership, and shared responsibility for learner outcomes.

Ms Mlotshwa, in her address, emphasised that the Excellence Awards are not merely ceremonial but a strategic initiative to reinforce a culture of high expectations and sustained performance. She encouraged all stakeholders to continue striving for educational excellence and to uphold the values of integrity, commitment, and service to learners.

The event was graced by the Deputy Director: Executive Support in the Office of the DDG: Corporate Management Services at KZNDoE Head Office, Pietermaritzburg, who commended the Circuit for its dedication to strengthening learner achievement and quality education.

The ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including Pastor A.T. Maphalala of God’s Will Church; SADTU, represented by Cde Sibusiso Madondo, Deputy Chairperson of the Mangethe Zwane Branch in the Phiwo kaMjula Gwamanda Region; NATU, represented by Ms Nonhlanhla Nxumalo, Driefontein Branch Secretary; school principals, educators, subject specialists, and departmental officials — demonstrating a united commitment to excellence in education.

The Circuit expressed gratitude to its partners, notably Metropolitan, represented by Mr Mvelase, whose support contributed to the success of the 2025 NSC results and the Excellence Awards programme.

 Venue: Crown Hotel, Ladysmith

 Date: 26 February 2026

#NSCExcellence2026 #AcademicDistinction #ElandslaagteCircuit #EducationLeadership #KZNInspiringNewHope #QualityEducation

Mashobane Secondary School in the Matiwane area, under the Elandslaagte Circuit of the uThukela District, recently hosted a collaborative engagement with a delegation from a United Kingdom University.

The visit formed part of ongoing efforts to strengthen international partnerships, promote knowledge exchange, and broaden global exposure for both learners and educators.

Led by Principal Ms K.G. Zwane, the School Management Team — including Departmental Heads Ms X.E. Zwane and Ms Zulu — warmly received the delegation and facilitated meaningful engagements centred on innovative teaching methodologies, learner support strategies, nature conservation, and academic development.

The interaction created a valuable platform for professional dialogue, enabling the exchange of best practices while inspiring learners through discussions on higher education pathways and global academic opportunities.

This collaboration was positively received by all stakeholders and is anticipated to make a meaningful contribution to teaching and learning at Mashobane Secondary School. The initiative underscores the critical role of strategic partnerships in advancing quality education and equipping learners with a global outlook.

Venue: Mashobane Secondary School, Matiwane Area, Elandslaagte Circuit, uThukela District.

Date: 28 February 2026.

#GrowingPartnerships

#GlobalEducation

#QualityLearning

#uThukelaDistrict

#InternationalCollaboration

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education successfully hosted the 2026 Inauguration of the Representative Council of Learners (RCL) at Dundee High School on 26 February 2026, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening learner leadership and promoting effective school governance.

The Endumeni Central Circuit Manager, Mr T.S. Phakathi, welcomed and introduced guests. The Chief Education Specialist from the Governance and Management Directorate at Head Office, Mr S.W. Mthethwa, outlined the purpose of the event, emphasising the importance of fully functional RCL structures to ensure meaningful learner participation. He encouraged the newly elected leaders to serve with integrity and to leave a lasting legacy in their respective schools.

In a significant moment during the ceremony, the newly elected District RCL Chairperson, Sinqobile Buthelezi, led the learners’ pledge. Ms Shabangu, Principal of Bunyebethu under Msinga CMC, Ngubevu Circuit, led the principals’ pledge, highlighting a shared commitment to partnership, collaboration, and leading by example.

Delivering the keynote address, Chief Education Specialist from the Teacher Development Directorate, Mr Sizwe Mchunu, reminded attendees that leadership is rooted in service and accountability. He stressed that effective leaders consult, prioritise the interests of others, and make informed — sometimes difficult — decisions that shape the future of learners and communities.

The programme concluded with congratulatory remarks from Ms S.P. Myeza, Senior Education Specialist for Governance and Management, who commended the newly elected District RCL leadership and wished them success in executing their responsibilities.

Venue: Dundee High School.

Date: 26 February 2026.

#RCLInauguration2026 #LearnerLeadership #SchoolGovernance #EducationExcellence #KZNInspiringNewHope #uMzinyathiDistrict

The MEC for Education in KwaZulu-Natal, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, attended the State of the Province Address (SOPA) delivered by the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Thami Ntuli, today at the Woodburn Rugby Stadium.

In his address, the Premier applauded the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education for its exceptional performance in the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) results, achieved despite significant financial constraints. The recognition highlights the resilience, dedication, and commitment of educators, learners, and departmental officials across the province.

The Department remains focused on strengthening quality learning and teaching, ensuring improved learner outcomes and sustained academic excellence throughout KwaZulu-Natal.

Venue: Woodburn Rugby Stadium.

Date: 27 February 2026.

#KZNSOPA2026

#KZNDepartmentOfEducation

#EducationExcellence

#NSC2025

#GrowingKZNTogether

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education convened the T40 and T70 Schools Support Programme Meeting at Empangeni High School in the King Cetshwayo District on 24 February 2026.
Watch | Chief Director for District Operations Management, Ms Thembelihle Gumede, delivered a comprehensive presentation on the Management of Section 58B and the categories of underperformance in schools, as outlined in Circular D2 of 2017. She highlighted the critical considerations that must be observed before categorising a school as chronically underperforming, ensuring that due process, fairness, and contextual realities are taken into account.
The session further unpacked the Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) functions and the responsibilities of principals in public schools, with a clear focus on strengthening leadership capacity, enhancing learner performance, and providing targeted academic support across T40 and T70 schools.
Ms Gumede emphasised the positive impact of Operation Bounce Back as a strategic intervention aimed at improving learner outcomes and restoring a culture of excellence within underperforming schools.
The meeting reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to decisive leadership, structured accountability, and sustained support to drive improved performance across the district.
Venue: Empangeni High School, King Cetshwayo District.

Date: 24 February 2026.
#KZNDOE
#KingCetshwayoDistrict
#DistrictSupportProgramme
#StrengtheningLeadership
#ImprovingLearnerOutcomes
#OperationBounceBack
#EducationalExcellence

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Reading remains one of the most powerful tools for academic success and lifelong learning. It strengthens cognitive development, enhances vocabulary, improves concentration, and builds critical thinking skills.

Learners who cultivate a daily reading habit perform better across subjects, communicate more confidently, and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. Beyond the classroom, reading nurtures imagination, empathy, and informed decision-making — essential skills for responsible citizenship and future leadership.

Let us continue to encourage a culture of reading at home, in schools, and within our communities to empower every learner to reach their full potential.

Date: 27 February 2026.

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, through the uMlazi District, continues to advance learner support initiatives with the rollout of the 2026 Saturday Intervention Programme.

uMlazi District Director, Ms Busi Mahlambi, engaged directly with drivers responsible for transporting learners to the programme — reaffirming the District’s commitment to learner safety and operational excellence. The initiative is delivered in partnership with the UKZN College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, strengthening collaboration between basic and higher education.

Importantly, all drivers are from special schools within the district, underscoring a strong focus on inclusive education while ensuring learners are transported safely to access critical academic support.

 Venue: UKZN Westville Campus.

 Date: 21 February 2026.

#KZNDOE #UmlaziDistrict #SaturdayIntervention #InclusiveEducation #EducationExcellence #Matric2026

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, through the uMlazi District, continues to advance learner support initiatives with the rollout of the 2026 Saturday Intervention Programme.

uMlazi District Director, Ms Busi Mahlambi, engaged directly with drivers responsible for transporting learners to the programme — reaffirming the District’s commitment to learner safety and operational excellence. The initiative is delivered in partnership with the UKZN College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, strengthening collaboration between basic and higher education.

Importantly, all drivers are from special schools within the district, underscoring a strong focus on inclusive education while ensuring learners are transported safely to access critical academic support.

 Venue: UKZN Westville Campus.

 Date: 21 February 2026.

#KZNDOE #UmlaziDistrict #SaturdayIntervention #InclusiveEducation #EducationExcellence #Matric2026

Debate  by Minister of Basic Education Ms Siviwe Gwarube, MP.

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education invites unemployed graduates to apply for its 24-month Graduate Internship Programme (2026–2028).

This structured programme is designed to provide meaningful workplace exposure, enhance professional skills, and improve employability within the public service sector. Successful applicants will receive a monthly stipend and be placed at the Head Office or District Offices across KwaZulu-Natal.

?️ Closing Date: 27 February 2026

The internship opportunities span a wide range of disciplines, including Human Resource Administration, Information Technology, Communications & Publications (PMB only), Supply Chain Management, Organisational Development (PMB only), Legal Services (LLB – PMB only), EMIS (Data, Statistics, GIS & IT-related), Infrastructure Planning & Delivery, Special Needs & Inclusive Education, Library & Information Services, Inter-Governmental Relations, Occupational Health & Safety, Finance, and Co-curricular (Sport & Music).

Minimum Requirements:

✔ South African citizen

✔ Unemployed graduate with no relevant work experience

✔ Not currently studying

✔ Have not previously participated in an internship programme

✔ Willing to sign a contract and be placed anywhere in KZN

✔ People with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply

Required Documents:

• New Z83 Form
• Certified copy of ID
• Comprehensive CV
• Matric Certificate
• Degree/Diploma Certificate
• Full Academic Record
• Proof of Residence
• Proof of Professional Registration (where applicable)

 Applications must be hand-delivered to the nearest KZN Department of Education District Office or Head Office.

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Seize this opportunity to gain invaluable experience and contribute meaningfully to education development in KwaZulu-Natal.

#KZNDOEInternship2026 #GraduateInternshipProgramme #YouthEmpowerment #SkillsDevelopment #PublicServiceCareers #KZNDOE

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education has officially convened the Bana Pele Registration Drive: Provincial Programme Management Unit (PMU) Onboarding Session, marking a significant step towards strengthening governance and compliance within Early Childhood Development (ECD) programmes across the province.

The Silver/Gold Registration Training has necessitated the establishment of a dedicated provincial structure to coordinate ECD programmes and oversee the critical transition from Bronze to Silver registration compliance. This structure will play a central role in ensuring effective implementation, monitoring, and accountability.

A key priority of the programme is the physical verification of ECD centres to ensure full compliance with prescribed norms and standards. Strategic stakeholders will be brought on board to support compliance processes and enhance service delivery.

Welcoming members of the Provincial Programme Management Unit, the Director for Early Childhood Development, Nozipho Mkhize, emphasised the importance of capacity building, “Today we want to capacitate members to be able to support our districts and ensure that monitoring is strengthened, so that we meet our targets and beyond.”

The onboarding session was facilitated by Tebogo Chake from the Programme Management Unit at the Department of Basic Education, who highlighted the structure’s oversight role in driving Silver/Gold registration implementation across the province.

The newly established provincial structure will provide direct support to districts, ensuring effective coordination, strengthened monitoring systems, and improved compliance outcomes for ECD centres.

Venue: Provincial Public Service Training Academy, Dokkies, Durban.

Date: 18 February 2026.

#KZNDOE #BanaPele #ECDRegistration #ProgrammeManagement #ComplianceMatters #QualityEarlyLearning

The Themba Njilo Foundation, in partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, successfully hosted a Mass Back-to-School Prayer Event for schools within the Mid Illovo Circuit. The purpose of the event was to unite schools in prayer for a successful academic year, while promoting educational programmes and community empowerment initiatives.

The event was attended by the Deputy Director-General for Curriculum Management, Mr. Mbongiseni Mazibuko, representing the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education. He was accompanied by the uMgungundlovu District Director, Mr. Sqhamo Mabinza, and the Mid Illovo Circuit Manager, Ms. Nosipho Hlela.

The gathering received strong support from various stakeholders, including Telkom, local business owners, community members, Ukhozi FM, and the Mayor of Mkhambathini Local Municipality. All seven principals from the Mid Illovo Circuit attended, together with Grade 12 learners.

Telkom introduced its Lightbulb solution, designed to enhance learning and teaching by enabling learners to continue their studies from home. The programme provides Grade 8 to 12 learners with free access to an online supplementary support system, offering valuable educational resources to assist with schoolwork.

Mr. Themba Njilo, founder of the Themba Njilo Foundation, encouraged learners to remain focused on their studies and to make decisions that will positively shape their future. He shared insights about the Foundation’s mission to support learners from rural areas and presented gifts to all seven school principals.

In his closing remarks, the Mayor of Mkhambathini Local Municipality, Mr. Hlakanipho Ntombela, called upon pastors to continue praying for learners during these challenging times. He expressed gratitude to the Department of Education for supporting the initiative and thanked Mr. Njilo for hosting such an important event for the community. He encouraged all learners, especially the Grade 12 class, to stay committed to their goals and wished them success in their academic journey.

The event concluded with a candle-lighting ceremony, during which pastors offered prayers for all Grade 12 learners. Entertainment was provided by local artists and participating schools, creating a spirit of unity and hope.

Together we stand — No child should be left behind.

Venue: Dwengu Community Hall

Date : 18 February 2026

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education convened a Mid Illovo Circuit Support Programme meeting at Dwengu High School today, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening school leadership, enhancing learner performance, and providing targeted academic support across the circuit.

Led by the Deputy Director-General for Curriculum Management, Mr Mbongiseni Mazibuko, the 08h00 session brought together principals and School Management Teams (SMTs) from 24 schools. The meeting focused on an in-depth analysis of 2025 academic performance, identification of underperforming areas, and the development of clear, measurable interventions to improve overall results.

Performance was reviewed from provincial to circuit and school level to ensure alignment and accountability. Two schools achieved an outstanding 100% pass rate, while the lowest performing school recorded 47%. With the district currently performing at 91%, the circuit has set an ambitious target of 95% and above. Underperforming schools will receive focused support and structured follow-up engagements to accelerate improvement.

Priority subjects identified for targeted intervention include Mathematics, Mathematical Literacy and Accounting. Schools were directed to implement structured improvement plans, supported by detailed programme plans and programmes of assessment.

Strong emphasis was placed on effective curriculum management, including moderation of learner work, monitoring of exercise books, and active leadership involvement in teaching, learning and assessment. Principals and SMTs were urged to utilise learner performance analysis tools to identify learners at risk, track progress by name, and introduce timely subject-specific support interventions. Informal assessments were highlighted as critical instruments for early detection of learning gaps.

The Department will conduct follow-up visits with identified schools to monitor progress and ensure the effective implementation of improvement strategies, as the circuit works collectively towards achieving and sustaining improved academic outcomes.

Venue: Dwengu High School.

Date: 18 February 2026.

#KZNDOE

#MidIllovoCircuit

#CurriculumManagement

#AcademicExcellence

#LeadershipInAction

#QualityEducation

The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, convened a high-level strategic engagement with the KwaZulu-Natal Education Development Trust to reinforce collaborative efforts aimed at advancing quality education across the province.

Discussions centred on accelerating the delivery of critical school infrastructure, strengthening learner support programmes, and expanding digital learning initiatives — with particular emphasis on disadvantaged and rural schools.

Addressing stakeholders, the MEC emphasised the shared responsibility of education development, “Education is a societal responsibility. Government alone cannot meet all the developmental needs of our schools. Together, we must create an enabling environment where teaching and learning can thrive.”

The Department reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and measurable impact through strategic partnerships that directly benefit learners and enhance academic performance.

Venue: Elangeni TVET College Head Office, Pinetown

Date: 18 February 2026.

#KZNDOE #QualityEducation #StrategicPartnerships #InfrastructureDevelopment #DigitalLearning #BuildingTheFuture

The Phoenix Technical School proudly celebrated its 2025 Academic Awards Day, recognising and honouring outstanding academic achievement and dedication across the school community.

Learners from Grade 8 to Grade 12 were applauded for their exceptional performance and commitment throughout the 2025 academic year. Educators who demonstrated excellence, innovation and unwavering dedication to teaching and learning were also recognised for their invaluable contribution to learner success.

The ceremony reflected the school’s firm commitment to academic excellence, discipline and a culture of high performance. Through recognising achievement, the school continues to inspire learners to strive for greater heights and uphold standards of excellence in all areas of learning.

Venue: Phoenix Technical School, uMlazi District.

Date: 18 February 2026

#AcademicExcellence
#PhoenixTechnicalSchool
#CelebratingSuccess
#QualityEducation
#KZNDOE

The Bana Pele Early Childhood Development (ECD) Registration Drive Training Programme continued with notable progress on its second day in the King Cetshwayo District, reinforcing the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education’s commitment to strengthening early learning systems across the province.

Proceedings commenced with a comprehensive demonstration of the Journey App — an innovative digital tool designed to streamline and enhance the ECD registration process. The session underscored the importance of regulatory compliance, adherence to quality standards, and the implementation of efficient procedures to improve service delivery within the sector.

This capacity-building initiative forms part of a collaborative programme between the Department of Basic Education and the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, aimed at ensuring that ECD centres are fully supported and equipped to meet registration requirements.

Day Two brought together district officials from iLembe, uMkhanyakude, and the host district, King Cetshwayo. The workshop proved both productive and engaging, with participants undertaking a practical dummy registration exercise using the Journey App, demonstrating strong participation and a sound grasp of the system.

The primary objective of the exercise is to equip district officials with the necessary skills and competencies to guide ECD centres in complying with legislative requirements and successfully registering with the Department.

Addressing participants, the Director for Early Childhood Development, Ms Nonhlanhla Mkhize, emphasised the strategic importance of the programme in strengthening early learning services across KwaZulu-Natal.

“This training empowers our officials with the practical tools and knowledge required to support ECD centres effectively. By ensuring proper registration and compliance, we safeguard the wellbeing of our children and reinforce the foundation of early learning in the province,” she said.

The Bana Pele Registration Drive continues to be rolled out across districts as part of the Department’s ongoing efforts to professionalise and formalise the ECD sector.

Venue: Empangeni High School, King Cetshwayo District.

Date: 17 February 2026.

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, under the leadership of the MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka together with the KZNDOE's HOD, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo and Members of Top Management today made its first appearance of 2026 before the KZN Education Portfolio Committee at the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Legislature.

During the engagement, the Committee congratulated the Department on the outstanding Matric results achieved by the Class of 2025, acknowledging the resilience of learners, educators, school leadership and parents who delivered exceptional outcomes despite challenging conditions throughout the academic year.

Members of the Committee further unanimously committed to sustained engagement with both Provincial and National Treasuries to highlight the adverse impact of budget cuts on the sector. The Committee reaffirmed its support for advocating adequate and sustainable funding to safeguard quality education delivery and to strengthen the public education system in KwaZulu-Natal.

Venue: KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Legislature Precinct, Lilian Ngoyi Boardroom.

Date: 17 February 2026.

#KZNDOE

#EducationPortfolioCommittee

#MatricResults2025

#PublicEducation

#EducationFunding

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education proudly celebrated excellence in Maritime Education during a prestigious awards ceremony held at the Maritime School of Excellence.

The event recognised outstanding learner achievement in Maritime Economics, while also honouring valued industry stakeholders whose continued partnerships strengthen curriculum delivery, skills development, and sector innovation. The ceremony highlighted the importance of collaboration between education and industry in preparing learners for meaningful participation in the maritime economy.

Top achievers in Maritime Economics were applauded for their dedication, academic excellence, and commitment to advancing South Africa’s maritime sector. Their achievements reflect the Department’s ongoing efforts to promote specialised skills development and expand career pathways within the ocean economy.

Through strategic stakeholder partnerships and curriculum innovation, the Department continues to position Maritime Education as a catalyst for economic growth and sustainable development in the province.

Venue: Maritime School of Excellence, uMlazi District.

Date: 13 February 2026

#SkillsDevelopment
#ExcellenceInEducation

 The Head of Department for the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo, today attended the Maritime Stakeholders Awards held at the Maritime School of Excellence, Durban on 13 February 2026. 

Upon arrival, the Head of Department was warmly received by the Deputy Director-General for Curriculum Management and Delivery, Mr Mbongiseni Mazibuko; the Chief Director for District Operations, Ms Thembelihle Gumede; the Chief Director for Curriculum Management, Ms Sindi Zakuza-Njakazi; the Chief Director for Examinations, Assessments and Quality Assurance, Dr Ray Penniston; as well as the uMlazi District Director, Ms Busi Mahlambi.

The awards ceremony brought together key stakeholders in maritime education to recognise commitment, innovation and excellence in advancing Maritime Studies and Maritime Economics within KwaZulu-Natal schools. The event underscores the Department’s strategic focus on strengthening specialised curriculum streams that contribute meaningfully to skills development and the growth of the ocean economy.

Through collaborative leadership and stakeholder partnerships, the Department continues to position maritime education as a catalyst for learner opportunity, industry readiness and sustainable economic participation.

Venue: Maritime School of Excellence.

 Date: 13 February 2026.

#MaritimeEducation

#StakeholderPartnerships

#CurriculumExcellence

#OceanEconomy

#KZNDOE

The Deputy Director-General for Curriculum Development and Management, Mr Mbongiseni Mazibuko, officially welcomed the Head of Department for the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo, during a stakeholder briefing held as part of the Maritime Stakeholders Awards held at the Maritime School of Excellence.

In his address, the Head of Department emphasised the critical importance of coordinated, multi-level collaboration in advancing maritime education across the province. He highlighted the strategic partnership between the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, the Department of Basic Education, the Department of Higher Education and Training, and key industry stakeholders.

The engagement reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to strengthening curriculum delivery, ensuring alignment between basic education, post-school education and training, and the evolving needs of the maritime sector. Through sustained collaboration and shared accountability, stakeholders aim to enhance learner pathways, promote skills development, and contribute meaningfully to the growth of South Africa’s ocean economy.

? Venue: Maritime School of Excellence.

?️ Date: 13 February 2026.

#MaritimeStakeholdersAwards

#MaritimeEducation

#CollaborativeLeadership

#CurriculumDevelopment

#OceanEconomy

#KZNDOE

Officials from the Harry Gwala, uMgungundlovu and uThukela Districts have commenced with the Bana Pele ECD Registration Drive Silver and Gold Training Programme at Linpark High School in the uMgungundlovu District.

The training aims to capacitate officials with the requisite skills and knowledge to effectively support Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres and guide them towards compliance with prescribed norms and standards.

Setting the tone for the sessions, Chief Education Specialist for GET, ELITS & ECD, Mr. Mdu Zwane emphasised the importance of collaborative partnerships.

“Other stakeholders, such as municipalities, need to be brought on board to assist with the proper demarcation of ECD centres,” he remarked.

The Department continues to prioritise the formalisation and quality assurance of ECD centres across the province. To date, 1 500 centres have been registered under Bronze status, with a target of 800 centres progressing to Silver and Gold status. Officials were taken through detailed registration requirements to ensure compliance and improved programme delivery.

Through this initiative, the Department seeks to strengthen the foundation phase by ensuring that ECD practitioners are well-equipped to prepare children effectively for formal schooling.

Venue: Linpark High School, uMgungundlovu District.

Date: 12 February 2026.

#KZNDOE
#DBE
#BanaPele
#ECDRegistrationDrive
#EarlyChildhoodDevelopment
#QualityEducation
#GrowingKZNTogether

The Head of Department for the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo, today attended the Maritime Stakeholders Awards held at the Maritime School of Excellence, Durban on 13 February 2026.

Upon arrival, the Head of Department was warmly received by the Deputy Director-General for Curriculum Management and Delivery, Mr Mbongiseni Mazibuko; the Chief Director for District Operations, Ms Thembelihle Gumede; the Chief Director for Curriculum Management, Ms Sindi Zakuza-Njakazi; the Chief Director for Examinations, Assessments and Quality Assurance, Dr Ray Penniston; as well as the uMlazi District Director, Ms Busi Mahlambi.

The awards ceremony brought together key stakeholders in maritime education to recognise commitment, innovation and excellence in advancing Maritime Studies and Maritime Economics within KwaZulu-Natal schools. The event underscores the Department’s strategic focus on strengthening specialised curriculum streams that contribute meaningfully to skills development and the growth of the ocean economy.

Through collaborative leadership and stakeholder partnerships, the Department continues to position maritime education as a catalyst for learner opportunity, industry readiness and sustainable economic participation.

Venue: Maritime School of Excellence.

Date: 13 February 2026.

#MaritimeEducation
#StakeholderPartnerships
#CurriculumExcellence
#OceanEconomy
#KZNDOE