Overview

• Officials report a rapid rise in vulnerable learners at fee-paying (quintile 4 and 5) schools, driving higher demand for provincially funded meals.
• The Gauteng Department of Education says provincial budget reductions have intensified financial pressure on the Extended NSNP.
• Payment processing has been delayed for some service providers under the extended programme, and the department has engaged them to resolve outstanding amounts.
• The national NSNP, funded by a grant and serving quintile 1–3 schools, remains in operation without interruptions, according to the department.
• National authorities are reviewing the school quintile system to better align funding with current socio-economic conditions.