An ID is more than a document, it is a gateway to opportunity, from registering for examinations to applying for tertiary education and employment. Through collaboration across Government, barriers are being removed for learners to be empowered to step into their future.
The Minister of Basic Education, Ms Siviwe Gwarube, alongside the Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Leon Schreiber, lead a joint high-impact outreach programme at Cloetesville High School on 22 April 2026. This collaborative initiative reflects Government’s commitment to bringing essential services directly to communities whilst investing in the future of young people. The programme included the handover of identity documents to matric learners, ensuring they are equipped for opportunities beyond school, as well as laptop donations to STEM teachers to strengthen digital learning and innovation in classrooms. It also brings Home Affairs services closer to residents, making access more convenient and efficient. The delegation was joined by the Stellenbosch mayor, Cllr Jeremy Fasser.
Minister Gwarube described the moment as a key milestone in a young person’s life journey: “Receiving your ID marks the start of your path as an active citizen. It is your gateway to education, to employment, to opening a bank account, and to participating fully in society. An ID is not just a document. It unlocks access to opportunity and affirms your right to belong”.
Minister Gwarube encouraged the Grade 12 learners of Cloetesville High School to remain committed to their studies, stay focused on their goals, and approach their final school year with discipline and determination. She reminded learners that their circumstances do not define their future, and that education remains one of the most powerful tools to unlock opportunities and create lasting change. She further motivated the Class of 2026 to believe in their own potential, work hard in pursuit of excellence, and take pride in every step they make towards success. The visit highlighted the importance of collaboration between government, schools, communities, and partners to ensure that every learner has access to quality education and the support needed to thrive.
Minister Schreiber emphasized the importance of partnerships in improving service delivery. “When departments work together, citizens win. Today’s handover shows what is possible when we take Home Affairs services into schools and communities, instead of expecting communities to always come to us,” he noted.
The outreach programme concluded with Minister Gwarube and Dr Schreiber visiting the Cloetesville community, where Department of Home Affairs mobile offices were stationed to assist residents with accessing essential document services. Addressing residents, Minister Gwarube expressed appreciation to Dr Schreiber for driving accessible service delivery, saying that for too long many people had to travel long distances and face unnecessary challenges to access government services. She welcomed the shift towards bringing services directly to communities, ensuring that people are served with dignity and convenience. She also thanked the dedicated officials working inside the mobile units, recognising their commitment to helping citizens and delivering services efficiently. The Stellenbosch outreach reflects a broader commitment by Government to ensure no learner is left behind due to a lack of documentation. “Independence starts with identity. And with that identity, we want our young people to dream bigger, study further, and lead boldly,” Minister Gwarube concluded.