Oprah Winfrey to Close South African Girls' Academy After Nearly Two Decades, Expands Scholarship Programme Instead

After nearly 20 years of transforming the lives of young women through education, Oprah Winfrey has announced that the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls (OWLAG) in South Africa will close at the end of the 2027 academic year.

The decision marks the end of one of South Africa's most recognised educational institutions. However, Oprah says her commitment to empowering young women through education is not ending. Instead, her foundation will expand its scholarship programme, allowing academically gifted girls from across South Africa to attend a wider range of schools. The new model is expected to benefit significantly more students than the academy could accommodate on a single campus.

A Vision Inspired by Nelson Mandela

The idea for the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls began after Oprah met former South African President Nelson Mandela in 2000. During their discussions, Mandela emphasised that educating girls was one of the most powerful ways to strengthen communities and develop future leaders.

Inspired by that vision, Oprah committed herself to creating a world-class boarding school for academically talented girls from disadvantaged backgrounds. Construction of the academy followed, and the school officially opened in January 2007 in Henley-on-Klip, south of Johannesburg. Oprah personally funded the project through her charitable foundation, investing millions of dollars to provide exceptional educational opportunities.

A Legacy of Educational Excellence

Since opening its doors in 2007, the academy has earned an international reputation for academic excellence, leadership development and preparing students for higher education.

Over the past two decades, hundreds of graduates have gone on to study at leading universities in South Africa, the United States and other countries. Alumni have pursued successful careers in medicine, law, engineering, business, education and public service, while many have returned to uplift their communities and inspire future generations.

The academy's focus on leadership, discipline and academic achievement has made it one of the country's most respected educational institutions.

Why Is the School Closing?

According to Oprah Winfrey, the closure is not the result of financial challenges or declining academic performance.

Instead, she says the decision represents the next phase of her long-term mission to improve access to quality education for young South African women. By expanding scholarship opportunities nationwide, the foundation believes it will be able to support many more students than could be accommodated at a single boarding school.

As part of the transition, the academy's campus is expected to be transferred to the Gauteng Department of Education, in line with long-term plans for the institution.

What Happens to Current Students?

Current learners will continue their education without interruption.

Students already enrolled at the academy will remain at the school until they graduate, while any remaining learners will continue receiving financial support to complete their education where necessary. The transition will take place after the final graduating class completes the 2027 academic year.

Mixed Reactions Across South Africa

The announcement has sparked emotional reactions across the country.

Many South Africans have praised Oprah Winfrey for investing in girls' education for nearly two decades, describing the academy as one of the nation's most successful educational initiatives.

Others have expressed sadness that such an iconic institution will close, pointing to its remarkable impact on hundreds of young women and the thousands of family members and communities whose lives have been transformed through education.

Looking Ahead

Although the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls will close as a residential school in 2027, Oprah Winfrey says her commitment to South African education remains stronger than ever.

By expanding scholarship opportunities and investing in talented young women across the country, she hopes to build on the academy's legacy and ensure that even more South African girls receive access to life-changing educational opportunities.

While the academy's gates may eventually close, its impact will continue to be seen in the achievements of its graduates and in the many young women who will benefit from the next chapter of Oprah Winfrey's educational mission.