Almost 23 000 learners across Gauteng, the Western Cape, Mpumalanga, and Limpopo still do not have confirmed school placements as the 2026 academic year approaches, raising pressure on districts already short of classroom space.

Gauteng reported 4 858 Grade 1 and Grade 8 learners unplaced, while Western Cape had about 7 000. Mpumalanga said about 9 000 were still waiting, and Limpopo about 1 300.