Concerns Rise as Reports of School Targeting Add to Anti-Immigration Tensions in South Africa

Child rights advocates in South Africa have raised alarm over renewed claims that foreign children are being targeted at schools, as verified reports point to a broader pattern of anti-immigration activity affecting access to public services. Posts shared on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook on April 28 and 29 alleged that individuals linked to Operation Dudula attempted to block children from other African countries from entering classrooms. The claims have not yet been independently verified by major national news outlets. However, similar incidents have been previously documented. In August

Child rights advocates in South Africa have raised alarm over renewed claims that foreign children are being targeted at schools, as verified reports point to a broader pattern of anti-immigration activity affecting access to public services.

Posts shared on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook on April 28 and 29 alleged that individuals linked to Operation Dudula attempted to block children from other African countries from entering classrooms. The claims have not yet been independently verified by major national news outlets.

However, similar incidents have been previously documented. In August 2025, eNCA reported that members of the group visited schools in Soweto, Johannesburg, where they demanded that undocumented migrant children be excluded from attending classes. The actions drew condemnation from lawmakers and education stakeholders, who warned they could disrupt schooling and harm children.

In separate reporting, the Associated Press documented cases in which the group blocked foreign nationals from accessing healthcare facilities in Gauteng province, prompting legal and human rights concerns over access to public services.

Advocacy organisations have warned that rhetoric and actions targeting migrants in essential services risk extending into other sectors, including education.

Legal experts point out that under the South African Schools Act of 1996, all children in the country are entitled to basic education regardless of nationality or immigration status. South Africa is also bound by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which guarantees every child’s right to education.

Advocates warn that even isolated incidents or unverified reports of exclusion at schools can create fear and instability among learners, particularly migrant children.

Operation Dudula did not respond to a request for comment on the latest claims.

The Department of Basic Education has not issued a statement addressing the recent reports.

UNICEF South Africa has warned that exclusionary practices in education risk deepening inequality and harming children’s long-term development, according to a 2022 education and social inclusion brief.