Gauteng Education MEC warns municipalities over school utility cuts

Gauteng Education MEC Lebogang Maile has issued a final warning to municipalities regarding the disconnection of water and electricity at public schools. Describing the disconnections as “reckless” and “irresponsible,” Maile stated that the provincial government is prepared to explore legal action if schools are not reconnected immediately.

The department is currently addressing several infrastructure and resource challenges, including a shortage of school furniture and the pressure of rising learner numbers, with over 450,000 applications already received for the 2027 academic year. To mitigate utility issues, the department is considering centralizing utility payments or exploring public-private partnerships and off-grid electricity solutions.

In addition to infrastructure concerns, the department is prioritizing school safety. Maile announced intensified search-and-seizure operations to combat drugs, weapons, and violence, noting recent raids in Carletonville and Orange Farm. The province is also investing R165 million in school patrollers and collaborating with law enforcement to improve security.