Pretoria: First Lady Dr. Tshepo Motsepe has issued a call for increased regional collaboration to broaden access to quality Early Childhood Development (ECD) programs, noting that millions of young children in South Africa are currently excluded from early learning initiatives. Motsepe delivered her remarks at a luncheon for First Ladies from Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) countries, held on the sidelines of the 46th SADC Summit in Durban on Monday. She underscored the critical role that investing in young children plays in laying the foundation for the region's long-term social and economic progress.
According to South African Government News Agency, Motsepe emphasized that ECD is a potent catalyst for human development, economic expansion, and social unity, rather than just a social investment. While South Africa has made strides in enhancing access to early learning opportunities, significant hurdles persist. "Approximately 3.5 million young children in our country are not accessing early learning programs. Behind this number are children whose potential remains untapped and families who require greater support to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive," she stated.
Motsepe welcomed the First Ladies to South Africa and KwaZulu-Natal, highlighting that their presence demonstrated regional solidarity and a collective commitment to improving the lives of women and children across Southern Africa. "As leaders and advocates, we understand that the future of our region depends on the opportunities we create for our youngest citizens today," she remarked.
She pointed out that ECD's recognition as a national priority within South Africa's National Development Plan 2030 lays the groundwork for cooperative action. She argued that investing in young children is crucial for breaking poverty cycles, reducing inequality, and fostering a more prosperous and inclusive society. "By working together, and by building on the commitments outlined in South Africa's National Development Plan 2030 and similar regional aspirations, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and realize their full potential," she added, stressing that quality early childhood development should be regarded as a right, not a privilege.
Motsepe commended the Department of Basic Education's efforts in transforming and expanding the ECD sector, with a focus on improving quality, registration, funding, and access. She also acknowledged the significant role of civil society organizations in supporting children, families, practitioners, and early learning programs. She recognized the importance of local government structures and private sector partners in creating enabling environments and expanding opportunities for young children.
The luncheon also highlighted the work of the Early Care Foundation, a South African non-profit dedicated to enhancing ECD services in underserved areas. Motsepe underscored the foundation's efforts in training, mentoring, and capacity-building for ECD principals and practitioners, noting its 35-year commitment to strengthening early learning opportunities.
Motsepe expressed optimism that the engagement among the First Ladies would fortify partnerships across the region, encourage knowledge-sharing and best practices, and inspire further action to promote the wellbeing of young children throughout SADC. "Together, let us reaffirm our commitment to giving every child the strongest possible start in life," she concluded.