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The Eastern Cape Department of Education says it has made strong progress in preparing schools for the 2026 academic year, with learning materials delivered ahead of schedule in most districts.
By 7 November 2025, the department had completed the delivery of scholastic stationery to all public schools across the province. This ensures that learners and teachers will have the materials they need from day one.
In addition, top-up textbooks for Grades 8 to 12 were delivered by 8 December 2025.
Primary school materials arriving in two phases
Due to a delay in finalising the requisition catalogue for primary schools, the top-up textbook deliveries for Grades 1 to 7 had to be split into two phases: one for primary schools and one for high schools.
Despite this, the department confirmed that procurement for the remaining textbooks is currently underway and that all Grade 1–7 materials will reach schools before they reopen in January 2026.
“No learner will be left without the necessary resources,” said the department in a statement.
Quick summary of progress
- Stationery delivery: Completed by 7 November 2025
- Grade 8–12 textbooks: Delivered by 8 December 2025
- Grade 1–7 textbooks: Delivery in progress, expected by January 2026
- LTSM priority: Ensures effective learning from the first day
Department promises full readiness
The Department stated its commitment to quality education and said timely delivery of learner teacher support material (LTSM) remains a top priority.
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