SAHRC Unveils Annual Education Report in Johannesburg
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) today, Wednesday, November 12, 2025, officially launched its annual 'State of Schools Report' at its Head Office in Parktown, Johannesburg. The report, presented at 10:00 AM, is set to highlight persistent systemic challenges within the country's basic education sector.
SAHRC spokesperson Wisani Baloyi stated that the 2025 report focuses on issues that impede the fundamental right to basic education. The Commission's findings, analysis, and recommendations are intended to ensure accountability from relevant departments, urging them to address these challenges proactively before the commencement of the 2026 academic year.
Key Findings from Nationwide Monitoring
Earlier this year, the SAHRC undertook an extensive monitoring project, visiting more than 150 public schools across all nine provinces of South Africa. These visits were conducted to assess the readiness of schools to provide teaching and learning for the 2025 academic year.
The monitoring initiative was prompted by numerous complaints received by the Commission regarding access to basic education, a right enshrined in Section 29 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996. The report identifies several critical issues, including:
- Poor infrastructure
- Overcrowding
- Lack of sanitation facilities
- Late learner registrations
These challenges collectively contribute to a significant barrier to quality education for many South African learners.
Recommendations and Accountability
The 'State of Schools Report' not only details the problems but also provides concrete analysis and recommendations for improvement. The SAHRC has already shared the report with the office of the Director-General of the Department of Basic Education, as well as provincial departments, to allow them an opportunity to respond and implement corrective measures.
The Commission's objective is to ensure that these systemic issues are resolved, thereby upholding the constitutional right to education for all children in South Africa. The report serves as a crucial tool for advocacy and oversight, aiming to drive tangible improvements in the nation's schooling system.
7 Comments
Raphael
This report provides essential data for advocacy, which is a positive step towards change. However, without a concrete, funded plan for infrastructure development and teacher training, these recommendations might just gather dust like many before them.
Leonardo
Just talk, no real solutions. Our schools are crumbling.
Michelangelo
Excellent initiative! Exposing the truth is the first step to fixing it.
Donatello
High time these issues get proper attention. Thank you, SAHRC.
Raphael
Finally, someone is holding them accountable! This report is vital.
Africa
Acknowledging the severity of overcrowding and sanitation issues is crucial for our children's future. Still, the report doesn't fully delve into the root causes like rapid urbanization or budget allocations, which are complex factors needing long-term strategies.
Mariposa
The SAHRC's effort to highlight constitutional rights is commendable, especially regarding access to education. Yet, the persistence of issues like poor infrastructure suggests that previous reports and efforts haven't yielded sufficient results, indicating a deeper problem than just awareness.