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Parents buy uniforms in stages to cope with rising costs

Exclusive uniform deals add to family financial strain

By Thembi Siaga • 29 January 2026
Parents buy uniforms in stages to cope with rising costs

Rising uniform and stationery costs are forcing Vhembe parents to purchase items in stages, stretching already tight budgets. Exclusive supplier agreements for branded items exacerbate the financial burden, leading to Competition Commission interventions urging schools to promote competitive pricing and generic options.

Rising school uniform and stationery prices are forcing parents in Vhembe to buy items in stages, stretching already tight budgets to keep their children in class. Many rely on social grants, which means they are forced to cut back on basic household needs or send children to school without full uniforms.

The 2026 academic year got off to a shaky start in January when Limpopo Education MEC Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya had to postpone the opening of some schools on 14 January due to danger...

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