ECD training to transform communities

 

ECD training to transform communities 

SANE SHANDU

ETHEKWINI Municipality has launched a transformative Early Childhood Development (ECD) initiative that is already changing lives across disadvantaged communities and informal settlements.

The eThekwini Municipal Academy (EMA) has introduced a comprehensive one-year NQF Level 4 training programme for over 50 ECD practitioners.

These practitioners are being equipped to nurture holistic child development including the cognitive, emotional, social, and physical aspects, ensuring that children are not only school-ready but life-ready.

They are also trained to identify developmental delays early, enabling timely interventions that can alter a child’s entire trajectory.

The initiative is being held in partnership with the Human Settlements and Safer Cities Directorates. While EMA is capacitating them with skills, Human Settlements is investing in infrastructure by upgrading ECD centres.

This integrated programme intends to improve learning environments and create safe, stimulating spaces where children can thrive.

EMA Project Manager Lihle Sishi described this initiative as a commitment to breaking cyles of socio-economic challenges, unemployment and inequality. ‘’By empowering ECD practitioners with the right tools and knowledge, we are ensuring that every child, regardless of where they come from, has a fair chance at a better life, starting from a young age,’’ she said.

The initiative is already making a visible impact in communities.

Children who once roamed the streets are now engaged in structured learning. Parents are seeing the benefits of early education, and communities are beginning to rally around the centres as hubs of growth and safety.