Oprah Winfrey to Close South African School for Girls in 2027

After nearly two decades of educating young women from underprivileged backgrounds, Oprah Winfrey’s leadership academy in South Africa is set to close. The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls (OWLAG), located south of Johannesburg, will conclude its operations at the end of the 2027 academic year.

In accordance with the original agreement, the expansive boarding school campus will be handed over to local education authorities. For the 281 students currently enrolled who will not have graduated by the closure date, Winfrey’s foundation has pledged to provide full scholarships to continue their education elsewhere.

The academy, inspired by Winfrey’s 2002 meeting with Nelson Mandela, has seen over 1,000 girls graduate since its opening in 2007. These alumnae have gone on to pursue careers as doctors, lawyers, engineers, and entrepreneurs.

While the school has been the subject of some past controversies, including criticisms over its initial $40 million cost and a staff member accused of abuse (later cleared of charges), a spokesperson for the foundation denied speculation that mismanagement was the reason for closure. Winfrey stated that her educational mission continues, emphasizing that the goal was always to “invest in the limitless potential of young women.”

The foundation plans to shift its focus to a scholarship program, enabling academically talented girls from across South Africa to attend leading schools. The Gauteng province’s education department has expressed commitment to preserving the academy’s legacy and ensuring the institution continues to serve the community.

https://nilepost.co.ug/news/360354/oprah-to-close-her-school-for-girls-in-south-africa