Education activist Hendrick Makaneta has raised concerns that climbing private school fees in South Africa (SA) are putting quality education out of reach for many families and could deepen the divide between rich and poor.

Ahead of the 2026 academic year, Makaneta highlighted that the average annual fee at the ten most expensive private schools now exceeds $24 000, meaning parents could pay over $123 000 for a child to complete the full five years of high school.

“Private schools can set their own fees, but recent increases have far outstripped inflation,” Makaneta said. “Education should be a public good and a foundation for social and economic development. When fees become this high, only a small, wealthy segment of society can access the best education. Transparency around school fees is urgently needed. SA’s future depends on an education system that is accessible to everyone.”

–ChannelAfrica–