Gauteng Education Department struggles with payment delays amid rising demand for school nutrition

The Gauteng Education Department says budget reductions are causing payment delays for service providers of its Extended National School Nutrition Programme.

Department spokesperson Steve Mabona said another contributing factor is the growing number of learners relying on the programme.

He added that the provincial programme is overwhelmed as it also serves fee-paying schools that have learners in need.

Mabona emphasised that demand currently exceeds supply.

“This increase is directly linked to the rising socio-economic vulnerabilities faced by families who were previously self-sufficient. Compounding these pressures, budget reductions at the provincial level have created further strain on this essential programme.”