06 Nov 2024

Selebi Phikwe Town Council (SPTC) hosted a significant workshop on Tuesday aimed at enhancing early childhood education standards among local day care centre managers.

This initiative underscores the critical role that the first 1 000 days of a child’s life play in shaping their future as adults.

During the workshop’s opening, SPTC’s Deputy Town Clerk-Operations, Mr Scotch Matsaunyana, emphasised the necessity for stakeholders involved in early childhood education to regularly evaluate their practices to enhance the quality of education.

He remarked on the vital impact these managers have in nurturing the future leaders and technocrats of the nation.

“Your perseverance and dedication needs to be applauded,” Mr Matsaunyana said.

He noted that while Selebi Phikwe currently boasts 25 day care centres, two centres were facing challenges that might reduce this number to 23.

He stressed that adherence to existing rules and regulations is crucial for smooth operations, as a conducive learning environment is essential for effective early childhood education.

The workshop aimed to identify existing gaps and challenges in the implementation and coordination of Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE), as well as to share successful practices and experiences among participants. A key focus was on understanding the standards, instruments, and statutes governing ECCE services.

Mr Mooketsi Kebofhe from the Department of Architecture and Buildings highlighted the necessity of complying with established standards to foster a fun and effective ECCE environment.

He urged day care managers to maintain their facilities in good condition, with no water leakages, peeling paint, or hazardous flooring conditions.

He also called for the inclusion of ramps to accommodate children with disabilities.

Mr Kebofhe assured participants that the council conducts regular inspections to ensure that day care centres meet health and safety standards, which directly contributes to the quality of early childhood education.

Additionally, SPTC Principal Environmental Health Technician, Mr Koagile Keaikitse, addressed hygiene and safety protocols, stressing that day care centres must maintain clean floors, walls, and food preparation areas.

He advised that raw and cooked foods should be adequately separated, and measures should be taken to protect children from harsh weather conditions.

The workshop also focused on the importance of stakeholder engagement for the continued success of day care centres, providing managers with the tools necessary to enhance their operations and support child development. Ends