From left to right: Angela Kohl, Sara April, Sarah-lee Matsio, Limeze Williams, Gailene Williams, Shabalala Aletta Maki Masifundisane, Audrey van Wyk
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As demand continues to grow for qualified and professionally trained Early Childhood Development (ECD) practitioners in the Northern Cape, the Department of Basic Education has welcomed De Aar Solar Power’s ongoing investment in practitioner development.
The programme welcomed practioners from De Aar, Philipstown, and Britstown, which is now in its sixth year of operation, has established a strong track record of delivering quality training and support to ECD practitioners.In line with the Children’s Act, it has recognised ECD practitioners as essential to improving and strengthening the quality of early learning in the province.
Dr Palesa Manwedi-Thulo, Frances Baard District Director, commented, saying, ‘This solar farm’s commitment to community development is demonstrated through meaningful investments in ECD across the Northern Cape. Their support to see local ECD practitioners obtaining their NQF Level 4 and Level 5 qualifications, is aligned with national policies and the provisions of the Children’s Act 38 of 2005.”
She added that the solar plant’s support, from accredited practitioner training to infrastructure upgrades, governance training, first aid and continuous mentorship, has strengthened practitioner capacity and improved the quality of teaching, learning and care at local ECD centres.
The programme is delivered by training and development specialist, Custoda in partnership with Sol Plaatje University, which provides the accredited course content. Training follows a blended learning model, comprising one week of theory and three weeks of practical placement each month over a two-year period. This approach is designed to equip practitioners with both accredited qualifications and hands-on classroom experience, strengthening the quality of teaching and care during the foundational years.
One of the new trainees, 33-year-old Gailene Williams from Liggie Huis ECD Centre shared why she believes this opportunity will assist her in her teaching career. “This training will teach me better ways to support children’s learning through play. It will also make me more confident and prepared, so I can give children the best start to their education.”
HarrisinahTheka, Economic Development Manager at De Aar Solar Power said, “This programme equips practitioners with recognised qualifications as well as practical skills that enhance teaching capabilities so they can give young children the best start and lay the foundation for a quality education.”
Early Childhood Development yields measurable benefits over time: improvements in school readiness, learning foundations, and overall child development are incremental. Ongoing support helps build strong EDC centres, maintains practitioner skills, fosters community trust and allows the programme to adapt to changing local needs.
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