R150 million has been earmarked for Early Childhood Development in the 2024/25 financial year – this is a huge win for children and the organisations working to support them.
South Africa (23 July 2024) – A highlight of Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube’s recent Budget Vote speech was the allocation of R150 million to Early Childhood Development (ECD) for the 2024/25 financial year. This is great news as it means support for those who are reliant on support to run programmes aimed at the early development of children.
Recognising that the formative years are critical to laying a strong foundation for our children’s education journey, she also listed improving access to and quality of ECD as well as inclusive education as priorities for this administration.
Deb Zelezniak, CEO of the Santa Shoebox Project says, “It is enormously encouraging to hear Minister Gwarube express her structured and measured plan to address the inequality of access to quality education for all the children of South Africa.”
She adds, “We support her emphasis on ECD and acknowledgement that, should a child not receive adequate education in their formative years, they will not be set up to succeed. Ultimately, ECD is the very cornerstone upon which a child’s future is built.”
“By prioritising access to quality ECD programmes, the government is taking a proactive stance against the cycle of poverty and inequality. Not only is this an investment in our children but also in the country’s future workforce, economy, and society as a whole,” stresses Zelezniak.
“While the Minister’s commitment is commendable the road ahead is fraught with challenges,” she notes.
“Adequate funding, qualified educators, and safe infrastructure are essential components of a successful ECD system. It is imperative that the government translates its policy commitments into concrete actions and measurable outcomes, in line with the central theme of this Budget Vote speech.”
“South Africans eagerly await the unfolding of Minister Gwarube’s ECD vision. The nation holds its breath, hoping that this focus will mark a turning point in the lives of countless children, empowering them to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to a brighter future for all,” concludes Zelezniak.
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