The Ministry of Education and Training has approved the privatisation of Baha’i Schools, ending more than a year of back-and-forth deliberations.
Minister Confirms Decision
Education Minister Owen Nxumalo communicated the decision through a letter dated August 8. The letter confirmed that the schools’ governance structure will revert to its previous status, where the board of directors serves as the primary decision-making body.
Background of the Dispute
For nearly two years, the Baha’i Schools Board of Directors and the ministry had debated whether the schools should remain under government oversight. The board argued that privatisation would improve management and enhance educational outcomes.
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Concerns had previously been raised by the ministry over financial management, particularly the practice of operating a single account for the kindergarten, primary and high school divisions, which officials described as unprocedural and difficult to audit.
Conditions for Privatisation
Sources revealed that the approval came with conditions. Under private status, the Baha’i Schools must:
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Release all government-paid teachers back to the mainstream civil service.
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Independently recruit, employ and compensate teaching and administrative staff.
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Continue to have all teachers vetted and approved by the ministry to ensure they meet professional standards.
International School Status Restored
With the approval, the Baha’i Schools will also resume their status as an international institution, enabling them to align with global standards, curricula and operational practices.
The ministry has committed to developing guidelines for schools transitioning to private international status, which Baha’i Schools will be expected to follow fully.
Awaiting Official Comment
Baha’i Schools grantee Thoko Ngubeni declined to comment without board approval. Education Minister Owen Nxumalo confirmed the privatisation but said he could not provide further details at this stage.
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