Oprah Winfrey’s Leadership Academy for Girls to Close in 2027

By VL Bandi - Echos News ZA Editorial Desk
Published: Aug 1, 2026

Oprah Winfrey has confirmed that her Leadership Academy for Girls, located in Henley‑on‑Klip, Gauteng, will officially close at the end of the 2027 academic year. The announcement marks the end of nearly two decades of operation for one of South Africa’s most high‑profile educational institutions dedicated to empowering young women from disadvantaged backgrounds.

A Legacy of Empowerment

Founded in 2007, the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls (OWLAG) was established after Winfrey’s discussions with former President Nelson Mandela. The school was designed to provide world‑class education to academically gifted girls who lacked access to quality schooling due to socio‑economic challenges. Over the years, OWLAG has produced more than 1,000 graduates, many of whom have gone on to attend prestigious universities across South Africa and abroad.

The academy’s facilities included science laboratories, computer centers, a library, and a wellness center, reflecting Winfrey’s vision of creating a nurturing environment where young women could thrive academically and personally.

Transition to Government Oversight

While the academy will close under Winfrey’s foundation, the Gauteng Department of Education will assume control of the campus. This ensures that the infrastructure and resources invested over the past 20 years will continue to benefit South African learners. Current students will be supported until graduation, with those unable to complete their studies at OWLAG placed in other top schools with tuition fully covered.

Expanding Scholarships Nationwide

Winfrey explained that the closure is part of a strategic shift toward expanding her foundation’s scholarship program. By redirecting resources, the foundation aims to reach twice as many South African girls, offering them access to quality education across multiple provinces rather than concentrating efforts in one institution.

“This decision allows us to broaden our impact and ensure that more young women have the opportunity to pursue their dreams,” Winfrey said in her announcement. The expanded scholarship program will provide financial support, mentorship, and access to leading schools, creating a ripple effect of empowerment across the country.

Philanthropy Meets Sustainability

The closure highlights a broader trend in global philanthropy: moving from infrastructure‑heavy projects to scalable, distributed models of support. By integrating with public education systems, Winfrey’s initiative ensures long‑term sustainability while maximizing reach. The Gauteng government’s involvement also underscores the importance of collaboration between private foundations and public institutions in addressing systemic educational challenges.

Impact on South African Education

OWLAG’s closure will undoubtedly be felt by alumni and supporters who viewed the academy as a beacon of hope. However, the expanded scholarship program promises to democratize access to quality education, potentially benefiting girls in provinces such as Limpopo, KwaZulu‑Natal, and the Eastern Cape. This shift could help bridge educational inequalities and foster a new generation of leaders across diverse communities.

Education experts note that scholarships often provide flexibility, allowing students to attend schools closer to home while still receiving financial and academic support. This model could prove more effective in reaching rural and underserved areas where infrastructure challenges remain significant.

A Global Symbol of Hope

Since its inception, OWLAG has been more than just a school; it has been a symbol of resilience, empowerment, and the transformative power of education. Winfrey’s personal investment of over $40 million in the academy’s construction and operations demonstrated her commitment to uplifting young women. The transition to scholarships ensures that this legacy continues, albeit in a different form.

Conclusion

As South Africa prepares for the closure of the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in 2027, the focus shifts to the future of education for disadvantaged young women. With the Gauteng Department of Education taking over the campus and Winfrey’s foundation doubling its scholarship reach, the mission of empowerment remains intact. The academy’s legacy will live on through the thousands of girls who will benefit from expanded opportunities in the years ahead.

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