SPECIAL REPORT | MATRIC LEARNER ALLEGEDLY SENT HOME OVER JACKET AS PARENTS RAISE AFFORDABILITY CONCERNS

Mamelodi News | Mamelodi, Gauteng

A Grade 12 learner from Ribane Laka Maths and Science ICT SOS in Mamelodi was allegedly sent home after arriving at school wearing a plain black jacket instead of the school's prescribed baseball jacket, reigniting debate over school uniform policies, poverty and access to education.

According to the learner's parent, the incident occurred on 29 July 2026, when the learner was reportedly stopped at the school gate because the school does not permit learners to wear what was described as a "drymac" jacket on the premises.

The parent alleges that the learner returned home distressed after the encounter.

"My daughter came home crying. She said the principal treated her harshly. Now she's being denied education because we cannot afford the school's baseball jacket. She also has flu and has been in bed for two days," the parent told Mamelodi News.

The allegations have sparked concern among parents and community members, who question whether learners should be excluded from school over uniform issues, particularly during winter and where families face financial hardship.

The parent also questioned what they described as inconsistent enforcement of the rules, alleging that while learners were not permitted to wear non-prescribed jackets, some teachers were wearing long jackets and beanies to protect themselves from the cold.

With the National Senior Certificate examinations only months away, every school day is important for matric learners. Missing lessons can place additional pressure on learners already preparing for one of the most significant examinations of their lives.

The incident has also highlighted the broader reality facing many South African families. Rising living costs have left some parents struggling to afford prescribed school uniforms, despite placing education at the top of their priorities.

South African education policy recognises that learners should not be unfairly excluded from education because of financial hardship. Schools are encouraged to work with parents and governing bodies to find practical solutions where families cannot immediately afford prescribed uniform items.

Community members have suggested that schools consider compassionate alternatives during winter, including allowing plain black or navy jackets, establishing uniform assistance programmes, or creating second-hand uniform banks for struggling families.

Mamelodi News has not yet received the school's response to the allegations and will provide it should the school wish to comment.

What do you think? Should schools strictly enforce uniform policies even when families cannot afford the prescribed clothing, or should greater flexibility be allowed during winter?