Parents demand assistance from GDE

Tensions ran high when parents demanded the attention of Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) officials in Springs on Wednesday morning.
“I have been coming here since 6am on Monday, but no one comes out to help us or to explain why we can’t go in,” said one of the disgruntled parents.
Parents claimed that on Wednesday one of the officials eventually came out to inform those queueing outside that they would only allow pregnant women and parents of children in special schools access into the office.

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“They said the rest of us have to call the call centre, but didn’t give us the telephone number,” said a parent.
After this, one of the parents who was heavily pregnant went into the offices for assistance.
“I explained to them my child cannot attend any of the schools available to select from because of the vernacular languages taught at those schools.
“They told me they could not help me, I must just pick any school,” explained the expectant mom.
According to Steve Mabona, the spokesperson for the Gauteng Department of Education, the department has recorded over 23 000 late applications since December 22.

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“Unfortunately, because of the latest on Covid-19 and increasing numbers of infections, no walk-ins will be allowed,” he stated.
He encouraged parents to contact the call centre on 0800 000 789.
“Officials at our respective offices will not do physical assistance,” he added.

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