The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, has arrived at Addington Primary School to conduct an oversight visit aimed at monitoring the overall functionality of the school, following recent allegations relating to the discriminatory exclusion of South African learners.
The MEC was welcomed by the Head of Department, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo; the Deputy Director-General for Curriculum Management, Mr Mbongiseni Mazibuko; and the uMlazi District Director, Mrs Busi Mahlambi.
As part of the visit, the MEC will engage with school management and assess operational matters. This will be followed by a media briefing to outline preliminary observations and the Department’s position.
Venue: Addington Primary School, uMlazi District.
Date: 29 January 2026.
#KZNEDU #MECVisit #AddingtonPrimary #EducationOversight #uMlaziDistrict #QualityEducation
UNgqongqoshe Wezemfundo KwaZulu-Natal, uMnumzane Sipho Hlomuka, uvakashele eNsikayezwe Combined School esifundeni saseThukela kulandela ukungenzi kahle kwesikole emiphumeleni kamatikuletsheni yango-2025.
UNgqongqoshe ubehambisana noSotswebhu Omkhulu kuMasipala wase-Alfred Duma, uNkk Lindiwe Kubheka; uMqondisi Omkhulu obhekele ukusebenza kwezifunda, uDkt David Chonco; kanye noMqondisi Wesifunda saseThukela, uNkk Mapaseka Mokoena.
Evula lo mhlangano, uDkt Chonco uthe inhloso yokuvakasha wukulalela izinselelo ezibhekene nesikole nokusebenza ngokubambisana nabo bonke abathintekayo ukuze kutholakale izixazululo ezizoletha uzinzo nokuthuthuka ekusebenzeni kwesikole.
Uthishanhloko wesikole, uNkk Mantombi Mvula, wethule umbiko ogcwele echaza izizathu eziholele ekungenzini kahle, okubalwa ukungabambisani kahle kwabazali nesikole, izinselelo zokuziphatha kwabafundi, kanye nokungabambisani kwedlanzana lothisha. Naphezu kwalezi zinselelo, wethule izinhlelo zokungenelela ezihloselwe ukuthuthukisa ukufundisa nokufunda. Lezi zinhlelo zizobhekwa ngeso elibukhali ukuqinisekisa ukuzinikela kothisha nabafundi.
UMqondisi Wesifunda saseThukela, uNkk Mapaseka Mokoena, wethule izinyathelo zesifunda zokweseka isikole ukuze sibuyele ezingeni elihle lokusebenza nokuthola imiphumela egculisayo.
“Nginxusa othisha ukuthi babambisane nothisha nhloko, isigungu esilawula ukusebenza kwesikole kanye nomphakathi ukuze beseke isikole kanye nabafundi,” kusho uNgqongqoshe Wezemfundo KwaZulu-Natal, uMnumzane Sipho Hlomuka.
Indawo: Nsikayezwe Combined School, uThukela
Usuku: 27 Masingana 2026
#UngqongqosheWezemfundo #IsifundaSaseThukela #UkuvakashelwaKwezikole #UkuthuthukisaImfundo #KZNDoE #SisebenzisanaNgemfundo
The MEC for Education in KwaZulu-Natal, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, visited Nsikayezwe Combined School in the uThukela District following the school’s underperformance in the 2025 National Senior Certificate examinations.
The MEC was accompanied by the Chief Whip of the Alfred Duma Municipality, Ms Lindiwe Kubheka; the Chief Director responsible for District Operations, Dr David Chonco; and the uThukela District Director, Ms Mapaseka Mokoena.
In opening the engagement, Dr Chonco indicated that the purpose of the visit was to listen to the challenges faced by the school and to work collaboratively with all stakeholders to identify practical interventions aimed at restoring stability and improving academic performance.
The Principal of the school, Ms Mantombi Mvula, presented a detailed report outlining the factors that contributed to the school’s performance challenges. These included limited parental involvement, learner discipline challenges, and a lack of cohesion among a small number of educators. Despite these challenges, the Principal also presented intervention measures designed to strengthen teaching and learning. These measures will be closely monitored to ensure commitment from both educators and learners.
The uThukela District Director, Ms Mapaseka Mokoena, outlined the district’s support plan to assist the school in returning to its previous levels of performance and achieving improved learner outcomes.
“I call upon educators to work closely with the principal, the school governing body, and the broader community to collectively support the school and its learners,” said the MEC for Education in KwaZulu-Natal, Mr Sipho Hlomuka.
Venue: Nsikayezwe Combined School, uThukela District.
Date: 27 January 2026.
#MECVisit #uThukelaDistrict #SchoolSupport #EducationFirst #KZNDoE #WorkingTogether #LearnerSuccess
The MEC for Education in KwaZulu-Natal, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, accompanied by the Chief Whip of the Alfred Duma Municipality, Ms Lindiwe Kubheka; the Chief Director for District Operations Management, Dr David Chonco; and the uThukela District Director, Ms Mapaseka Mokoena, visited Sahlumbe Combined School to conduct an oversight and school functionality monitoring visit.
During his address, the MEC congratulated the school community for its outstanding performance in the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) Examinations. He commended the dedication and resilience demonstrated by both educators and learners, noting that despite the school’s location in a deep rural area of Ladysmith, Sahlumbe Combined School was able to compete on par with schools in urban settings.
A total of 170 candidates sat for the NSC examinations, with the school achieving an exceptional 100% pass rate. Of particular note was the school’s strong performance in Mathematics, achieving an impressive 97.8%. The MEC highlighted this achievement as clear evidence that commitment, effective leadership, and hard work can overcome contextual challenges.
The visit reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to recognising excellence, supporting schools in rural communities, and ensuring quality education outcomes across all districts in the province.
Venue: Sahlumbe Combined School, uThukela District.
Date: 27 January 2025.
#EducationExcellence #KZNDoE #SahlumbeCombinedSchool #uThukelaDistrict #OversightVisit #RuralEducation #LearnerSuccess
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education (KZNDoE) held a constructive engagement with a group of unemployed educators who have been camping outside the Department’s Head Office, demonstrating the Department’s commitment to listening, dialogue, and compassionate leadership.
The engagement was led by the Deputy Director-General for Corporate Services Management, Advocate Bheki Masuku, and supported by a senior management delegation comprising the Chief Director for Human Resources Management, Ms Nokukhanya Hlongwane; the Director for Human Resources, Mr Khehla Ngidi; the Director in the Office of the MEC, Dr Ngogi Mahaye; and the Head of Communications, Mr Muzi Mahlambi.
During the meeting, the Department reiterated its call for calm and restraint when addressing matters that impact the education sector, emphasising the importance of peaceful engagement and mutual respect.
The Department provided a detailed explanation of the processes currently followed in placing surplus educators who have been displaced as a result of declining learner enrolment or other contributing factors. These educators remain employed by the Department and continue to receive salaries, necessitating their prioritised placement to ensure continuity and effectiveness within the teaching sector.
The unemployed educators were represented by the South African Youth Council (uMgungundlovu), led by Mr S.K. Nxumalo, the Unemployed Educators Movement, as well as the broader group of educators present at the Head Office.
Dr Mahaye conveyed the MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka’s deep concern regarding the growing challenge of unemployed educators, noting that the Department currently does not have the capacity to absorb all educators seeking employment. The MEC has humbly appealed for adherence to due processes, while acknowledging that ongoing austerity measures remain the primary contributor to educator unemployment.
In outlining the employment framework, the Director for Human Resources, Mr Khehla Ngidi, clarified that the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education currently employs no educators of foreign nationality. This is due to the availability of suitably qualified South African surplus and unemployed educators, with no current demand for scarce skills outside the local pool.
Advocate Masuku and the Department’s human resource specialists further highlighted subject specialisations currently required within the system. These include:
Pure Mathematics (FET)
Coding and Robotics
Technical Mathematics
Physical Sciences
Life Sciences and Mathematics
Nautical Sciences
Maritime Economy
Agricultural Sciences
Civil and Electrical Technology
Digital Systems
It was noted that none of the educators present specialised in these identified areas of need.
Unemployed educators expressed appreciation to the MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, for affording them a platform to raise their concerns and for ensuring that senior officials of the Department provided clarity and guidance.
“We are confident in the capabilities of the Department and remain hopeful that employment opportunities will emerge,” said the Chairperson of the Educators Movement.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education reaffirmed its commitment to caring engagement, transparency, and continued dialogue as it works within existing constraints to address educator employment challenges.
Venue: 247 Burger Street, Pietermaritzburg.
Date: 27 January 2026.
#CaringGovernment #ListeningToEducators #ConstructiveDialogue #EducationMatters #KZNDoE #WorkingTogether #EmpathyInAction
The Head of Department for Education in KwaZulu-Natal, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo, has extended his warm congratulations to the management, educators and learners of Anton Lembede MST Academy for achieving a historic 100% pass rate in the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, including an outstanding 100% Bachelor-level pass rate.
Addressing staff at the school, Mr Ngcobo described the achievement as exceptional and rare, particularly as this was the first cohort of learners to sit for the NSC examinations at the Academy. He commended the school’s young team of educators for their commitment, innovation and dedication to academic excellence.
“This was the first NSC examinations for your Grade 12 cohort of learners, and to achieve a 100% pass rate with a 100% Bachelor-level pass rate is an extraordinary achievement. I do not believe that many schools, even those that have been established for a long time, have ever reached this level. That is why I felt it was important to come personally and say thank you,” said Mr Ngcobo.
The Head of Department emphasised that the achievement reflects strong leadership, effective teaching and learning, and a shared vision of excellence, positioning Anton Lembede MST Academy as a centre of academic excellence within the Pinetown District and the Province at large.
Venue: Anton Lembede MST Academy, Pinetown District.
Date: 26 January 2026.
#KZNDOE
#HODNkosinathiNgcobo
#WarmCongratulations
#NSC2025
#100PercentPassRate
#BachelorPasses
#AntonLembedeMSTAcademy
#PinetownDistrict
#AcademicExcellence
#QualityEducation
BUKA | UNgqongqoshe Wezemfundo KwaZulu-Natal, uMnumzane Sipho Hlomuka, uvakashele eQophindlela High School ukuzobheka ukusebenza kwesikole njengoba kuqala unyaka wokufunda ka-2026.
UNgqongqoshe wemukelwe uSotswebhu Omkhulu woMasipala wase-Alfred Duma, uNksz. Lindiwe Kubheka, uMqondisi weSifunda uThukela, uNksz. Mapaseka Mokoena, kanye noThishanhloko wesikole, uMnu. Mbanjwa.
Lolu vakasho luyingxenye yohlelo loMnyango, ukubheka ukusebenza kwezikole ngenhloso yokuqinisekisa ukuqala kahle konyaka wokufunda nokufundisa esifundazweni.
Indawo: Qophindlela High School, uThukela
Usuku: 26 Masingana 2026
#KZNDOE
#UkuvakashelwaKwezikole
#BuyelaEsikoleni2026
#QophindlelaHighSchool
#uThukelaDistrict
#ImfundoIyasebenza
#ImfundoEsezingeni
MINISTER CONDUCTS SCHOOL OVERSIGHT VISIT AT QOPHINDLELA HIGH SCHOOL
WATCH | The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, has arrived at Qophindlela High School to monitor the functionality and readiness of the school as the 2026 academic year gets underway.
The MEC was welcomed by the Chief Whip from the Alfred Duma Local Municipality, Ms Lindiwe Kubheka, the uThukela District Director, Ms Mapaseka Mokoena, and the School Principal, Mr Mbanjwa.
The visit forms part of the Department’s ongoing oversight programme aimed at ensuring effective teaching and learning, proper school governance, and a smooth start to the academic year across the province.
Venue: Qophindlela High School, uThukela District.
Date: 26 January 2026.
#KZNDOE
#SchoolOversight
#BackToSchool2026
#QophindlelaHighSchool
#uThukelaDistrict
#EducationInAction
#QualityEducation
https://youtu.be/LKtfLLtzJRI?si=2tTFWESbfxIZ7HMT
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education today convened a strategic engagement with the Beier Group in Pinetown, led by the Head of Department, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo, to formalise a partnership focused on advancing academic excellence and skills development.
The meeting culminated in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), marking a significant milestone in public–private collaboration. In terms of the agreement, the Beier Group will sponsor an all-expenses-paid engineering bursary for one of the Department’s Top Achievers, reinforcing a shared commitment to nurturing scarce skills and building a future-ready workforce.
The Department welcomes this partnership, which underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between Government and industry in expanding access to higher education opportunities and empowering high-performing learners from KwaZulu-Natal.
Venue: Beier Group, Pinetown.
Date: 23 January 2026.
#KZNDOE #EducationPartnerships #PublicPrivatePartnerships #EngineeringTheFuture #SkillsDevelopment #TopAchievers #BeierGroup
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education has arrived at Addington Primary School, under the leadership of the uMlazi District Director, Ms. Busi Mahlambi and stakeholders, including the South African Police Services to monitor the situation following protest action taking place outside the school premises.
The Department confirms that all learners at Addington Primary School are safe within the school grounds and that teaching and learning are continuing without any disruption.
While protest action is underway outside the school, arising from allegations of discriminatory conduct against South African-born learners, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education unequivocally rejects these allegations as unfounded and misleading.
The protest action is characterised by political activity involving various lobby groups and political parties. The Department emphasises that schools must remain zones of learning, free from political interference and disruptions.
The Department remains firmly committed to maintaining stability at the school and safeguarding the rights of all learners to uninterrupted education. Members of the public are urged to rely on verified, factual, and accurate information as the situation continues to be monitored.
Further updates will be communicated through official departmental platforms.
Venue: Addington Primary School, uMlazi District.
Date: 21 January 2026.
#SchoolSafety
#TeachingAndLearningContinues
#NoDisruptionToLearning
#EducationForAll
#uMlaziDistrict
#KZNDepartmentOfEducation
Day one of the three-day 2026 Basic Education Sector Lekgotla commenced today at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre in Boksburg, bringing together leadership from across the basic education sector to reflect, collaborate and strengthen a future-ready education system that leaves no learner behind.
The Lekgotla is attended by Members of Executive Councils (MECs) for Education, Heads of Department (HODs), senior officials from the Department of Basic Education, provincial education departments, and key sector stakeholders.
For KwaZulu-Natal, the Lekgotla is attended by the MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, together with the Head of Department, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo, who are participating in high-level engagements aimed at strengthening planning, coordination and implementation across the sector.
The Lekgotla provides a strategic platform for sector leaders to assess progress, share insights, and collectively chart a clear and responsive path for the 2026 academic year and beyond.
Key discussions on the first day focused on building a resilient and responsive education system, strengthening foundational learning through Early Childhood Development (ECD), literacy and numeracy, promoting learner and teacher wellbeing, preparing the system for learning in an increasingly uncertain and evolving future, and advancing continuous professional development for educators.
The engagements underscored the importance of collaboration, innovation, and accountability in ensuring quality teaching and learning outcomes across all levels of the basic education system.
The Lekgotla continues tomorrow, with deliberations expected to consolidate resolutions that will inform and guide the sector’s 2026 Programme of Action, aligned to national priorities and the constitutional imperative of equitable access to quality education.
Venue: Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre, Boksburg
Date: 20–22 January 2026
#BasicEducationSectorLekgotla
#FutureReadyEducation
#EducationForAll
#BuildingResilience
#LeavingNoLearnerBehind
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education continues to proactively address learner admission matters through structured engagement with all relevant stakeholders, ensuring that all learners are successfully transferred and placed in appropriate schools.
The uMlazi District Director, Ms. Busi Mahlambi, together with the Director for Governance and Management, Mr Mandla Shangase, convened a coordination meeting to finalise learner placements at Addington Primary School and neighbouring schools, including Clayton Primary School, Collegevale Primary School, Greyville Primary School, and St Anthony Primary School.
The engagements focused on resolving outstanding admission matters and ensuring stability in teaching and learning across the affected schools. The Department is pleased to report that learner admissions have been finalised.
“We are pleased that admissions have been concluded and we continue to urge parents to apply for school placements timeously to avoid last-minute challenges,” said Mr Mandla Shangase.
The Department reiterates its commitment to ensuring equitable access to education and safeguarding the continuity of teaching and learning for all learners.
Venue: Durban.
Date: 20 January 2026.
#LearnerAdmissions
#StakeholderEngagement
#AccessToEducation
#EducationForAll
#TeachingAndLearningContinues
#uMlaziDistrict
#KZNDepartmentOfEducation
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education convened a stakeholders’ meeting at Addington Primary School to address matters relating to learner transfers and school admissions, following public concerns raised within the community.
The meeting was led by the Chief Director for District Operations, Ms. Thembelihle Gumede, and was attended by the uMlazi District Director, Ms. Busi Mahlambi; the Director for Governance and Management, Mr Mandla Shangase; Dr Sibongiseni Dlomo, former Minister of Health; Councillor Sbusiso Lushaba of Ward 26; as well as community leaders and relevant officials.
The engagement focused specifically on learner admissions at Addington Primary School, which has recently been the subject of public and social media discourse, including allegations regarding the non-admission of certain South African-born learners.
Ms. Mahlambi provided a detailed briefing on the matter, outlining the admission processes followed by the school. She reported that, after engagements with the school principal, Mr Rajgopal Moodley, the School Management Team (SMT) and Circuit Management, the school submitted comprehensive admission statistics. These reflected the number of applications received, learners admitted, and those placed on the waiting list in accordance with the legally prescribed “first-come, first-served” admission policy.
The school principal confirmed that the admission and learner transfer processes were concluded during the previous academic year and that the school is currently full to capacity, pending formal confirmation by the Circuit Manager, Ms. Gugu Zuma. Ms. Zuma verified the admission statistics on 19 January 2026.
Councillor Lushaba highlighted that Addington Primary School is situated within the Central Business District, an area characterised by a diverse community. He emphasised that South African learners constitute the majority of the school’s enrolment and appealed for calm, urging community members to allow lawful and transparent processes to address any concerns.
The Department further indicated that engagements are ongoing with neighbouring schools to accommodate learners seeking placement or transfer. “The core mandate of the Department is to safeguard teaching and learning. Parents and guardians are encouraged to approach our offices directly should they have any queries or challenges related to learner admissions,” said Ms Gumede.
She also called on parents who may not have applied during the previous year to engage with the Department, assuring them of support in resolving admission challenges for the 2026 academic year.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education reiterates its commitment to fairness, transparency and social cohesion, and appeals for continued cooperation between the Department, schools and communities to ensure stability and uninterrupted teaching and learning.
Addington Primary School continues to function effectively, with all educators and learners in full attendance.
Venue: Addington Primary School.
Date: 19 January 2026.
#LearnerAdmissions
#CommunityEngagement
#EducationForAll
#SocialCohesion
#TeachingAndLearningContinues
#KZNDOE
#uMlaziDistrict
The Head of Department for the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo, has arrived at the Maritime School of Excellence under the uMlazi District to conduct an oversight and school functionality monitoring visit.
Mr Ngcobo was formally welcomed by the uMlazi District Director, Ms. Busi Mahlambi, the Head of Communications and Publications, Mr Muzi Mahlambi, Corporate Branch Coordinator, Mr Sandile Mkhize and the Interim Principal, Mr Khomo.
The visit forms part of the Department’s ongoing commitment to ensuring effective school functionality and the uninterrupted provision of quality teaching and learning.
Venue: Maritime School of Excellence, uMlazi District
Date: 16 January 2026
#KZNDOE #SchoolFunctionality #OversightAndMonitoring #QualityEducation #TeachingAndLearning #uMlaziDistrict
The Deputy Minister of the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube, conducted a Back to School Campaign visit at Sivananda Technical School in the Pinetown District, underscoring the critical role of skills development in preparing learners for the future.
The Deputy Minister highlighted opportunities available through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) and the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) as key pathways in supporting learner success and employability.
As part of the visit, Dr Dube-Ncube presented laptops to top-performing learners from Sivananda Technical School, Zakhe Secondary School, Inhlakanipho Secondary School, Isibonelo Secondary School and Inqabakazulu Secondary School, reinforcing government’s commitment to academic excellence and digital learning.
Venue: Sivananda Technical School, Pinetown District
Date: 14 January 2026
#BackToSchool2026 #SkillsForTheFuture #TVETColleges #SETAs #NYDA #LearnerSupport #DigitalLearning #ExcellenceInEducation #FutureReady #KZNeducation
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education MEC, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, conducted a school functionality monitoring visit at Amandosi Primary School in the King Cetshwayo District.
During the visit, the MEC engaged with the school principal, Mr Bhekumusa Mthembu, who presented the school profile and highlighted that the school’s academic performance remains satisfactory. The principal confirmed that stationery was received in the previous year and that the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) is being implemented effectively.
He further requested the provision of additional ablution facilities to accommodate the school’s growing learner enrolment. Expressing appreciation for the engagement, Mr Mthembu thanked the MEC and the Head Office delegation for their continued support.
In his address, MEC Hlomuka emphasised the importance of prioritising the entire basic education sector and not focusing solely on the FET phase, particularly Grade 12. He reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to monitoring and supporting all schools across the Foundation, Intermediate and FET phases. Commending the work of primary schools, the MEC acknowledged their role in producing well-prepared learners who are ready to transition successfully into secondary education.
The MEC also addressed learners, encouraging them to study smartly, actively participate in all school programmes and develop a strong interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects.
Venue: Amandosi Primary School, King Cetshwayo District.
Date: 15 January 2026.
#KZNDOE
#SchoolFunctionalityMonitoring #BackToSchool2026 #QualityEducation #PrimaryEducation #STEMEducation #KingCetshwayoDistrict
The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, has arrived at Khombindlela Secondary School in the King Cetshwayo District to conduct an oversight and monitoring of school functionality visit.
The MEC was warmly received by the King Cetshwayo District Director, Ms. Welile Nzama, together with a delegation from head office, that included the Deputy Director-General for Corporate Services, Advocate Bheki Masuku, and the Chief Director for District Operations, Ms. Thembelihle Gumede.
The oversight and monitoring visit aims to assess the overall functionality of the school and to ensure that teaching and learning are taking place effectively and without disruption, in line with the Department’s commitment to quality education and school readiness.
Venue: Khombindlela Secondary School, King Cetshwayo District.
Date: 15 January 2026.
#SchoolFunctionalityMonitoring #BackToSchool2026 #QualityEducation #KZNEDU #KingCetshwayoDistrict #ServiceDelivery
WATCH | Thobelani Sibiya from Bonela Secondary School shines as a top achiever with 8 distinctions.
“Congratulations Thobelani Sibiya on the brilliant work you achieved. The Department encourages you to continue working hard and pursue your dreams,” said KZN MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka.
Venue: Bonela Secondary School, uMlazi District.
Date: 14 January 2026.
#KZNDOE
#UmlaziDistrict
#BonelaSecondarySchool
#TopAchiever
#AcademicExcellence
#MatricResults
#FutureInLaw
#Success
WATCH | The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education’s Head of Department, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo, warmly welcomes the Grade 8 learners as they begin an exciting new chapter in their high school journey.
Venue: Queensburgh High School
Date: 14 January 2026
#OversightVisit #SchoolFunctionality #BackToSchool2026 #KZNDOE #QueensburghHighSchool #UmlaziDistrict #ExecutiveSupport #EducationExcellence
The KwaZulu-Natal Head of Department for Education, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo, officially welcomed stakeholders to the Executive Support School Reopening Visit at Queensburgh High School and formally introduced departmental officials to the Deputy Minister of Basic Education, Dr. Reginah Mhaule.
The Principal of Queensburgh High School, Mr Njabulo Phungula, expressed appreciation for the opportunity to present to the delegation. He outlined the school’s vision of producing disciplined, self-motivated learners and reflected on the school’s journey of recovery and growth. Despite previous leadership challenges, the school has recorded notable improvements in academic performance, sport and teamwork, achievements attributed to strong leadership, a committed School Management Team and sustained district support.
Queensburgh High School has shown consistent academic progress since 2015, achieving high pass rates across all grades. Infrastructure development has also improved significantly, including the addition of dormitories, laboratories, media rooms and access to piped water. While acknowledging these gains, the school highlighted the need for further development of sanitation facilities. Teamwork, shared values and a culture of continuous improvement were emphasised as key drivers of the school’s success.
The uMlazi District Director, Mrs. Busi Mahlambi, presented the 2025/26 District Implementation Plan, with a focused emphasis on strengthening learner performance, particularly in Mathematics.
Deputy Minister Dr. Reginah Mhaule commended the school for its impressive achievements, noting that an average pass rate of 94% is indicative of quality teaching, effective leadership and strong collaboration. She emphasised the importance of unity, teamwork and sound school leadership in driving sustainable success at both school and district levels, while reaffirming the Department’s commitment to addressing challenges through resilience and solution-driven approaches.
The MEC for Education in KwaZulu-Natal, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, expressed appreciation for the collective efforts of all stakeholders. He applauded the strong sense of unity and the consistent learner performance across all grades, and further commended the uMlazi District Director, Mrs. Mahlambi, for her unwavering dedication and support to the school.
The programme concluded with closing remarks by the Head of Department, who thanked all participants and encouraged stakeholders to extend a warm welcome to the Grade 8 learners as they embark on their high school journey.
Venue: Queensburgh High School.
Date: 14 January 2026.
#OversightVisit #SchoolFunctionality #BackToSchool2026 #KZNDOE #QueensburghHighSchool #UmlaziDistrict #ExecutiveSupport #EducationExcellence
Arrival of the Deputy Minister of Basic Education, Dr Reginah Mhaule, together with the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, and the Head of Department, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo, who were formally welcomed at Queensburgh High School as part of the Back to School 2026 Oversight and School Functionality Visit.
The Executive Support Visit demonstrated strong collaboration and unity between national and provincial leadership in ensuring a smooth and effective start to the 2026 academic year. The delegation, accompanied by Senior Management and District Leadership, headed by uMlazi District Director, Mrs Busi Mahlambi engaged directly with the school community to assess readiness, functionality and support mechanisms within the uMlazi District.
This visit reaffirmed the collective commitment of the Department of Basic Education and the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education to quality teaching and learning, effective governance, and stained support to schools across the province.
Venue: Queensburgh High School, Umlazi District.
Date: 14 January 2026.
#BackToSchool2026 #OversightVisit #SchoolFunctionality #KZNDOE #UmlaziDistrict #ExecutiveSupport #NationalAndProvincialLeadership #EducationExcellence
Gallery | The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Release of the 2025 National Senior Certificate Results currently underway at the ICC.
Some of the VIP Speakers were DBE Deputy Minister, Dr Makgabo Reginah Mhaule, KZN Premier Honourable Thami Ntuli, KZN MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, KZNDOE’S Head of Department, Mr Sipho Hlomuka and His Worship the Mayor of eThekwini, Councillor Cyril Xaba
Venue: Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, Durban.
Date: 13 January 2026.
#NSC2025 #MatricResults2025 #KZNEducation #DurbanICC #EducationExcellence #ProudlyKZN
Members of Senior Management arrived at the gala luncheon held as part of the Class of 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) Results Announcement, hosted by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education.
The prestigious event, hosted at the Durban International Convention Centre (ICC), forms part of the official programme marking the release of the Matric Results and celebrates excellence, leadership and collective achievement within the education sector.
Watch | Dr Raymond Penniston, Chief Director Provincial Examinations expressing his appreciation to all stakeholders that supported the Class of 2025.
Venue: Durban International Convention Centre (ICC).
Date: 13 January 2026.
#NSC2025 #MatricResults2025 #KZNEducation #DurbanICC #EducationExcellence #ProudlyKZN
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/14KkZDPBpp4/
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education proudly congratulates the uMkhanyakude District for emerging as the Top Achieving District in KwaZulu-Natal and securing Second Position Nationally in the National Senior Certificate (NSC) Examinations for the Matric Class of 2025.
This outstanding performance reflects the collective commitment, dedication and hard work of educators, learners, school management teams, parents and district officials in advancing quality education outcomes.
Congratulating the district, the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, applauded the achievement, stating:
“I congratulate the uMkhanyakude District for flying the Province of KwaZulu-Natal flag high. As a Department, we are proud of your achievement.”
The Department commends the district for setting a benchmark of excellence and contributing meaningfully to the province’s overall performance in the 2025 NSC examinations.
#NSC2025 #MatricResults2025 #uMkhanyakudeDistrict #KZNEducation #ExcellenceInEducation #ProudlyKZN
Today, 10 January 2025, the UMlazi District Director, Mrs. Busi Mahlambi, together with the Department’s contracted cleaning services company, conducted final cleaning operations and a readiness inspection at the Maritime School of Excellence ahead of the reopening of schools on Monday.
This intervention forms part of the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that all schools are clean, safe, and fully prepared for the resumption of teaching and learning. Through comprehensive cleaning and thorough inspections, the Department continues to create a healthy, safe, and welcoming environment for learners and educators, reinforcing its focus on quality teaching and learning across all schools.
Venue: Maritime School of Excellence, UMlazi.
Date: 10 January 2025.
#KZNDepartmentOfEducation
#UmlaziDistrict
#SchoolReadiness
#BackToSchool2026
#SafeSchools
#QualityTeachingAndLearning
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education convened Day 1 of the District Operations Management Meeting, addressed by the Head of Department, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo, with all twelve (12) District Directors in attendance.
The two-day 2026 plenary meeting is hosted by the Chief Directors for District Operations, Dr David Chonco and Ms Thembelihle Gumede, and is sponsored by VVOB (Education for Development), a non-profit organisation and strategic partner of the Department.
The plenary session was further strengthened by the presence of the Chief Financial Officer, Ms. Yali Joli, as well as Chief Directors and Directors from Head Office.
In his address, the Head of Department reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to sustaining an upward trajectory in learner performance across public schools. He emphasised the critical importance of strengthening the interface between primary and secondary education to ensure seamless learner transition, improved preparedness, and the ability to meet academic expectations at the next level.
The Chief Financial Officer provided a comprehensive briefing on the Department’s fiscus position, highlighting key focus areas and underscoring the pivotal role of District Directors in the prudent management of limited resources.
Day 1 of the meeting also focused on robust deliberations and idea-sharing aimed at further improving the quality of teaching and learning in schools. District Directors outlined their readiness for curriculum reform, strengthened governance, and efficient management delivery as the education sector prepares for the demands and opportunities of 2026.
Venue: Aha Gateway, Umhlanga
Date: 08 January 2025
#KZNDOE #DistrictOperations #DOMM2026 #EducationForDevelopment #QualityTeachingAndLearning #CurriculumReform #EffectiveGovernance #EducationInAction
WATCH | The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, through the Chief Directorate: District Operations, is convening a District Operations Management Meeting attended by all 12 District Directors. The meeting is further supported by the participation of the Head of Department, Mr Nkosinathi Ngcobo, and Deputy Directors-General.
The two-day engagement is held under the theme; “Realigning the education system to cater for the skills and competencies of a changing world.”
Discussions are centred on strategic planning, performance evaluation and organisational introspection, aimed at strengthening district-level support and ensuring effective service delivery as the 2026 academic year gets underway.
The engagement is expected to yield focused and actionable outcomes aligned to departmental priorities.
Venue: Aha Gateway, Umhlanga.
Date: 08 January 2026.
#KZNDOE
#DistrictOperations
#ManagementMeeting
#EducationForTheFuture
#SkillsForAChangingWorld
#BackToSchool2026
WATCH | The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, has commended educators and learners in the uThukela District for their commitment and readiness, demonstrated through the early start of the academic programme for the Class of 2026.
The oversight visit forms part of the Department’s Back to School programme and focuses on schools that have proactively opened their doors early to provide additional tuition and academic support to the Class of 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen performance outcomes. The MEC engaged with school management, educators and learners to assess preparedness, curriculum coverage plans and learner support interventions.
Venue: Ekukhuleni High School.
Date: 07 January 2026.
#BackToSchool2026
#EarlyStart2026
#ClassOf2026
#uThukelaDistrict
#QualityTeachingAndLearning
#KZNDepartmentOfEducation
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1C9vQ3dSgT/
Watch | The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education’s Head of Communications, Mr Muzi Mahlambi, delivered a presentation on communication compliance and the implications of non-compliance during Day 2 of the uMlazi District Strategic Planning 2026, currently underway at the Maritime School of Excellence.
The presentation emphasised the importance of adherence to approved communication protocols to ensure accurate, consistent and effective dissemination of information within the organisation and to the public.
“Communication strategy is designed to establish clear communication protocols within the organisation and to ensure that information is effectively conveyed to the public, while also ensuring that key messages are consistently communicated timeously,” concluded Mr Mahlambi.
Date: 07 January 2026.
Venue: Maritime School of Excellence, uMlazi District.
#uMlaziDistrict #StrategicPlanning2026 #CommunicationCompliance #EffectiveCommunication #KZNEDU #EducationInAction
Day 2 of the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education’s uMlazi District Strategic Planning Session for 2026 concluded at the Maritime School of Excellence under the theme “Collective Responsibility in Action: Transforming 2026 Plans into Measurable Impact through Implementation, Monitoring, and Evaluation.”
The session placed a strong emphasis on moving beyond planning towards effective implementation, robust monitoring and evaluation, and the achievement of measurable outcomes aimed at improving teaching and learning across the district.
The uMlazi District Director, Mrs Busisiwe Mahlambi, officially closed the session by expressing appreciation to all delegates for their commitment and valuable contributions. In her closing remarks, she highlighted the importance of teamwork and urged officials to utilise the insights and presentations shared to collectively drive improved performance and service delivery in 2026.
The programme was further strengthened by a presentation from the Head of Communications, Mr Muzi Mahlambi, who outlined communication compliance requirements and the implications of non-compliance.
The day concluded with commission report-backs focusing on the following priority areas:
Venue: Maritime School of Excellence, uMlazi District.
Date: 07 January 2026.
#uMlaziDistrict #StrategicPlanning2026 #Day2 #CollectiveResponsibility #FromPlanningToAction #ImplementationMonitoringEvaluation #QualityEducation #ServiceDelivery #WorkingTogether
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education has officially commenced the uMlazi District Strategic Planning Session for 2026 at the Maritime School of Excellence. Convened under the theme “Collective Responsibility in Action: Turning 2026 Plans into Measurable Impact through Implementation, Monitoring and Evaluation,” the session is focused on strengthening execution, accountability, and performance monitoring to ensure improved educational outcomes across the district.
The uMlazi District Director, Mrs. Busi Mahlambi, officially opened and addressed the 2026 uMlazi District Strategic Planning Session, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility, effective implementation, and continuous monitoring to translate plans into measurable impact.
The strategic engagement brings together district leadership and key stakeholders to align priorities, translate plans into action, and reinforce a results-driven approach for the 2026 academic year.
Venue: Maritime School of Excellence, uMlazi District
Date: 06 January 2026.
#UmlaziDistrict
#StrategicPlanning2026 #CollectiveResponsibility #ImplementationInAction #MonitoringAndEvaluation #QualityEducation #KZNEDU #BuildingAFoundationForSuccess
The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Mr Sipho Hlomuka, has undertaken an oversight visit to the uThukela District to officially welcome educators and learners early return back to school for the Class of 2026, following the year-end holidays.
The visit commenced at Ezakheni High School, where the MEC was received by the uThukela District Director, Ms. Mapaseka Mokoena, together with senior officials from the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education.
As part of the programme, the MEC will also visit eKukhuleni High School to assess school readiness for the 2026 academic year and engage with school management, educators and learners.
Venue: Ezakheni High School & eKukhuleni High School, uThukela District.
Date: 07 January 2026.
#KZNDOE #MECOnTheGround #BackToSchool2026 #uThukelaDistrict #EducationInAction #QualityLearning