Thokozile Mnguni
The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls (OWLAG) is set to expand its reach through a national scholarship programme.
Oprah Winfrey announced the transition as the school’s next chapter, opening opportunities for academically talented young women across the country.
Gauteng Education MEC Lebogang Maile today welcomed the move, describing it as the next phase of one of the country’s most successful education partnerships.
The school opened in 2007 and has educated more than 1,000 academically gifted learners from disadvantaged communities. Its programme has focused on academic excellence, leadership, integrity, compassion and purpose.
“We express our profound gratitude to Ms Oprah Winfrey for her extraordinary vision, generosity and unwavering commitment to the education of South Africa’s young women,” said Maile.
“Through this Academy, she has not merely built a school. She has nurtured leaders, expanded opportunities, restored hope and transformed lives. The impact of this investment will continue to resonate across generations and across our nation,” he said.
Maile said the institution has shown what is possible when sustained investment is made in girls’ education and leadership development.
“There is no true social revolution without the liberation of women,” said Maile.
“We must create institutions that encourage every girl to dream boldly, think independently, lead confidently and realise her full potential. Education must liberate ambition, cultivate excellence and prepare young women not merely to participate in society, but to shape its future,” he said.
He said the school’s impact extends far beyond the classroom.
“The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls has embodied that mission for nearly two decades,” said Maile.
“Empowering the girl child is neither an act of charity nor symbolism. It is a strategic investment in national development,” he said.
“Every educated girl strengthens a family, uplifts a community, expands economic participation, inspires future generations and contributes to building a more just, prosperous and inclusive South Africa,” said Maile.
“The Academy has proven that when society removes barriers to opportunity and invests intentionally in girls, the benefits extend far beyond the individual learner and become a national asset,” he said.
Maile said the transition to a national scholarship programme will allow even more young women to benefit from Winfrey’s investment while preserving the school’s legacy.
Under the original partnership agreement, the residential campus will be transferred to the Gauteng Department of Education after the 2027 academic year.
Administrative processes are already underway. They will continue over the coming months to ensure the transfer of the school’s assets and facilities is completed in an orderly manner.
“The Gauteng Department of Education is committed to preserving and advancing the Academy’s legacy of academic excellence, ethical leadership and educational opportunity,” said Maile.
“We will ensure that this exceptional institution continues to serve the people of Gauteng while honouring the vision upon which it was established,” he said.
Maile also welcomed confirmation that all current learners will complete their education without interruption.
“We welcome the assurance that every learner currently enrolled at the Academy will complete her education journey with uninterrupted academic, financial and personal support,” said Maile.
“This provides certainty to learners, parents, educators and alumnae while reflecting the values of care, dignity and excellence that have defined the Academy since its inception,” he said.
Maile said Winfrey’s contribution will continue to benefit future generations.
“Investing in the education of girls is among the most transformative acts a society can undertake,” said Maile.
“When we educate and empower a girl, we do more than change one life. We unlock human potential, strengthen families, transform communities and help build the capable, inclusive and prosperous South Africa to which we all aspire,” he said.