Basic education minister denies foreign pupils are prioritized over South Africans

South African Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube denies foreign pupils are prioritized over citizens, calling the claim untrue. Gwarube stated foreign learners constitute only 1.8% of the 13.7 million students, asserting they are not responsible for school placement shortages. The constitution mandates education for all children. The minister acknowledged parental frustration but warned against scapegoating, referencing a 2019 court ruling affirming every child's right to education regardless of documentation or status.