The Gauteng Department of Education will require an estimated R35 billion to build 200 new schools as the province grapples with severe overcrowding, according to MEC Lebogang Maile.
Maile revealed that many schools across Gauteng are operating beyond their capacity, with increasing learner numbers placing pressure on infrastructure and resources.
The proposed construction of 200 schools is aimed at addressing the growing demand driven by rapid population growth and migration into the province, particularly in high-density urban areas.
The funding requirement of R35 billion highlights the scale of the challenge facing the provincial government, as overcrowded classrooms continue to impact the quality of teaching and learning.
Maile’s remarks underscore the urgent need for significant investment in education infrastructure to ensure that all learners have access to adequate schooling facilities.
