Schools can no longer force parents to buy certain school uniform items from specific retailers. However, not every school is complying with the new rules.
After years of complaints by parents, the Competition Commission began investigating issues around school clothing. Parents were mainly concerned by the high price of school clothing and having to purchase uniform and learning-related material from a specific supplier.
The Competition Commission explained that these types of exclusive agreements gave suppliers no incentive to lower their prices or improve the quality of the products they sell.
The commission's Khanyisa Qobo explained that engagement with schools, together with the Department of Basic Education, was done to sensitise schools to the plight of parents.
She said, “if possible schools should have more than one supplier of student uniforms if it is feasible. We are seeing a mixed bag but certainly improved compliance over time and but we will continue certainly hammering their message home".
If you believe the school your child attends is not complying with the new rules related to the sale of uniforms and school supplies, you can report the school.
These complaints can be made to the competition commission in one of two ways.
Here’s how to report schools who are not complying with the new rules around the purchasing of school clothes from certain retailers.
Option 1 - Online
Download a Form CC1 by CLICKING HERE
Fill out the required information
Attach a short description of your concerns
Send the form and short description to [email protected]
Option 2 - Whatsapp
Send a Whatsapp message to 084 743 0000 with a brief description of your complaint.
Remember to include information about the name and location of the school.
