🔥 Trending Oprah Winfrey Closes South African Girls' School, Shifts Focus to Scholarships

The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls (OWLAG) in South Africa is undergoing a significant transition, with its current operational model set to conclude at the end of 2027 ¹². Following this, the facility will be handed over to local officials and the provincial government ¹².

Transition to Scholarship Model and Local Control

Oprah Winfrey announced that the academy will transition from its current boarding school format to an "expanded scholarship program" ¹. This change means that while the physical school building will be taken over by the provincial government, Winfrey's commitment to educating South African girls will continue through scholarships ¹.

Academy's Legacy and Achievements

Established in 2007 near Johannesburg, OWLAG was founded by Oprah Winfrey to provide educational opportunities for disadvantaged girls in South Africa ⁵¹⁰. The academy has consistently demonstrated academic excellence, achieving high matric (final year) pass rates. For instance, it celebrated a matric pass rate exceeding 95% for 2025 ³, and a 100% bachelor's pass rate in the matric 2025 results ⁷. The school has been praised for shaping the future of young women and helping students transform their lives through education ³⁴.

Addressing Misinformation

Despite its positive impact, OWLAG has been the subject of baseless rumors and conspiracy theories. These include false claims linking Oprah Winfrey's jet to Epstein's island and allegations of missing girls from the school ⁹. Fact-checks have consistently debunked these claims, finding no credible evidence to support them ⁹¹⁰. For example, an extensive search by AAP FactCheck found no credible news reports about the discovery of a mass grave on the school's grounds, refuting another persistent rumor ¹⁰. The school's Facebook page continues to share updates and celebrate student achievements, showcasing its ongoing operations ⁶.