DA submits petition against Gauteng school budget cuts

More than 16,000 Gauteng residents have signed a DA-led petition calling for the immediate reversal of controversial budget cuts affecting Quintile 5 public schools. The party says the 64% cuts are pushing schools deeper into crisis, with many struggling to pay for electricity, maintain infrastructure and support learner programmes. The petition has now been formally submitted to the Gauteng Education Portfolio Committee for consideration. Phemelo speaks to DA Gauteng education spokesperson Mike Waters and Gauteng Education Department acting HOD Albert Chaane about the growing backlash over school funding in the province.