Here's how many foreign nationals are enrolled in SA schools according to the DBE

Here's how many foreign nationals are enrolled in SA schools according to the DBE

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has attempted to set the record straight on claims about foreign nationals in South African schools. Parents have protested the exclusion of South African children from classrooms due to limited space, with the DBE stating that any claims of bias were “patently false”. Protests marred the opening weeks of the 2026 school year as parents and activists called for the prioritisation of South African children.…

Foreign learners make up 1.8% of South Africa’s public school enrolment, DBE says

By Charmaine Ndlela Foreign learners make up only 1.8% of South Africa’s total learner population, the Department of Basic Education (DBE) said on Thursday, rejecting claims that children from other countries are “overrunning” local schools as misleading and unsupported by national enrolment data. “Such assertions are patently false and are not supported by any credible evidence,” the department said in a statement. ALSO READ: Next wave of infra…