Who is involved
In South Africa, the payment of social grants and school fees has seen significant changes recently. Historically, social grants were a vital support system for many families, particularly those reliant on the Older Persons Grant, Disability Grant, and Children’s Grants. These grants provided essential financial assistance, but the process and timing of payments were often met with uncertainty and delays.
As of March 2026, Sassa is set to pay its third round of social grants, with the Older Persons Grant scheduled for March 3, the Disability Grant on March 4, and the Children’s Grants on March 5. This timely distribution marks a decisive shift in the administration of social support, aiming to provide families with the financial resources they need in a more predictable manner.
In contrast to the social grants, the payment of school fees has remained a contentious issue. Public schools in South Africa often ask families for voluntary contributions, which can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars per child per year. However, these fees are not mandatory, as schools cannot force parents to pay. This situation has led to disparities in funding, with state governments failing to meet their financial targets for public schools.
The recent partnership between PayJustNow and TFG introduces a new dimension to the payment landscape. With the ability to split purchases into three interest-free instalments, families now have a more flexible option for managing school-related expenses. This development is particularly significant given that there are currently 3.5 million registered users of PayJustNow, with 100,000 new users joining monthly. The expansion of this service to 3,500 stores further enhances accessibility for consumers.
Experts like Dean Hyde emphasize the pressures consumers face in the current economic climate, stating, “Consumers are under real pressure.” This sentiment reflects the broader challenges families encounter when balancing their financial obligations, particularly in relation to education. Hyde also notes, “This is about accessibility and discipline,” highlighting the importance of responsible financial management in the context of Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) services.
In the realm of public education, the South Australian government has pledged to abolish voluntary parent fees, which could save families up to $8,000. Meanwhile, the Victorian state government provided a $400 school saving bonus to parents in 2025, showcasing differing approaches to funding education across regions. However, it is important to note that schools in South Australia will not receive their full funding entitlements until 2034, indicating a long-term challenge in achieving equitable educational funding.
While the changes in social grant payments and the introduction of BNPL options provide some relief, the ongoing issues surrounding school fees and funding remain complex. As families navigate these financial landscapes, the role of government support and innovative payment solutions will be crucial in shaping their educational experiences.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the broader implications of these changes, but the current landscape suggests a need for continued dialogue and adaptation to meet the needs of South African families.
