KwaZulu-Natal opens new focus schools for Maritime and ICT studies

The Department of Education in KwaZulu-Natal is making strides towards enhancing educational opportunities in critical sectors by announcing the opening of two new focus schools in Umlazi, Durban, and Osizweni, Newcastle, planned for 2026.

These institutions will specialise in maritime studies and information and communication technology (ICT), with the aim to equip learners from disadvantaged backgrounds with skills that are not only relevant but also essential for future economic growth.

Spokesperson Muzi Mahlambi emphasised the importance of the initiatives, which will not only support the provincial educational landscape but also builds on the successes achieved by five already existing focus schools that have been operational for the past five years, where agriculture was the focus.

“We want to produce learners who can actively participate in the ICT and maritime sectors,” said Mahlambi.

“Our goal is to groom them now so that they can effectively contribute to our oceans economy, rather than complain about a lack of engagement later.”

To alleviate the financial burden on families from impoverished communities, admission to both the Umlazi and Newcastle schools will be fully funded through 100% bursaries for 80 learners to each school.

The standard annual tuition fee for the schools was set at R150,000.

“We have asked our districts to identify learners from disadvantaged backgrounds who can form part of the first intake,” Mahlambi stated.

Applications for the programme were currently open and will close on November 21.

The department has already noted a significant influx of applications, which speaks volumes about the community’s desire for children to engage in critical sectors like maritime and ICT.

There will also be provisions for partial bursaries of 50% and 20%, contingent on the results of a means test conducted to assess parental affordability.

Industry-sponsored scholarships will also be available to high-achieving students.

Both schools will operate as boarding institutions, which would create an ideal environment to foster learning and personal development.

Parents wishing to enroll their children can do so online via the KZN Department of Education’s official portal: kznadmission.kzndoe.gov.za.

DAILY NEWS