EASTERN CAPE - It's all because of migration.
This has been the reason given by the Eastern Cape Education Department, to explain the closure of schools in parts of the province.
The dwindling numbers are in sharp contrast to the placement problems at the start of each year when pupils struggle to find spots in classrooms.
Authorities say they have offered parents alternative plans to take their children to schools, that are conducive for teaching.
eNCA's Ronald Masinda has the story in the video above.