DBE dispels claims of turning undocumented learners away at schools

The Department of Basic Education(DBE) has dismissed false social media posts claiming that undocumented learners will be denied access to public schools.

The department says no child may be refused admission because of missing documents such as birth certificates or ID cards.

Officials have urged schools to allow learners to continue their studies while parents secure the necessary paperwork.

In a statement released by the department, Spokesperson Terrence Khala re-iterates the law according to the BELA Act.

“The department wishes to set the record straight. Now, the law says that no child must be denied access to education because of missing documents. In line with the South African Schools Act, as amended by the BELA Act of 2024, all public schools are required to admit learners and provide education without unfair discrimination of any kind. Now, the department wishes re-iterate that this means principals and schools cannot turn away learners because they do not yet have the official documentation such as birth certificates or identity cards instead. Schools must advise parents and guardians to secure the necessary documentation while the child continues learning,” explains Khala.

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The DBE reiterates that, under the South African Schools Act (SASA) as amended by the BELA Act of 2024, no child may be refused education for lack of documentation. All public schools must admit learners and provide education without discrimination.#EducationZA #GovZAUpdates pic.twitter.com/tzGAJzokq3

— Dep. Basic Education (@DBE_SA) October 14, 2025