LAC continues to assist unplaced learners
As much as the internet is there, it costs parents R50 to go to the internet café to register.
Although Leratong Advice Center (LAC) has placed over 100 learners in various schools, more learners still need to be placed.
According to the founder and director of LAC. Papi Thetele, South African and migrant parents still looking for space for their children has decreased this year.
“This has been reduced because we started attending the cases on December 13, 2022. In January the number was very low, but we still have a lot of learners that need a school. They come to the office one by one,” said Thetele.
He said some parents come from as far as Primrose because their children were not placed.
“They come to our office in Katlehong because the schools in their area are already full. We then find space for them in the township.”
Thetele believes the Department of Education’s online application system is out of context because it does not match the reality of the situation with what is happening on the ground.
He noted it costs parents R50 to go to the internet café to register.
“Some parents are complaining. I have a Sepedi-speaking girl who obtained good results but she was not placed. I still have to find placement for her.”
He said he would not scrap the online system because it works in some instances.
“Rather make room for development and allow walk-ins so that they can at least be accommodated,” he added.
“Walk-ins are required to pay the school fees upfront. Those who work with the online system have the option to register and get a bit of time to prepare before paying,” he said.
Thetele explained that online registration has improved for migrant applications because they register using passports.
“But how many of them know about this? Most of them are still doing walk-ins. We have two Zimbabwean girls that need to be placed.
“The system is working but has its advantages and disadvantages. It becomes problematic for children who don’t have documents because they cannot even use the system unless they use a parent’s identity document.”
He said the government has to take into account that not all children are privileged to have documents.
LAC is requesting donations of school uniforms and shoes including grey trousers, white shirts and socks.
Thetele explained that from the 50% of the learners the organisation placed, he saw a desperate need for uniforms.
The public, local business and corporates can arrange to assist the organisation telephonically on 069 312 8679 or via WhatsApp on 072 607 9899, alternatively email Papithetele@yahoo.com
