I attended the establishment of South Africa’s first comprehensive Early Childhood Development (ECD) Forum this week, as led by Premier Alan Winde in fulfilment of his SOPA pledge. This intensive provincial consultation with ECD stakeholders brings governance to the ground level, to effect appropriate and meaningful change. Our priority has always been that ECDs must be involved at every step of the migration process from the Department of Social Development (DSD) to Education (WCED), and so we welcome the Western Cape Government leading from the front on this critical matter.
National Government had previously indicated that the migration would take place by March this year. However, we stood firmly against this so that more time and careful planning would be allowed before the migration took place. It’s now very clear that this was the right call, as the provincial government has been able to ensure broad consultation within the industry and key stakeholders. The DSD and WCED are fully on board and engaged with so that they can prepare for the impact of decisions affecting their operations and support to our youngest residents.
While I commend the current management of support to ECDs by the Department of Social Development, I recognise that the move to WCED will help us further establish a seamless, holistic education system that provides care and crucial learning opportunities for the children of this province.
I want to reassure ECD centres and parents that they have a tried and tested partner in the Western Cape. This was underscored last year, when the Western Cape was the only province not found in breach of its constitutional obligations to provide nutrition, social services, education, and the enhancement of the development of children, as found by the High Court in Pretoria.
While other provinces neglected children at ECD centres, a report last year by the National Coalition for Social Services revealed that the Western Cape had the highest compliance rating with ECD-related payments. It is now crystal clear that this government takes very seriously the wellbeing of children as of paramount importance and thus pays its centres on time.
Young children have a partner in the Western Cape, assuring them of the best possible start in life and learning. The DA’s safeguarding of these crucial incubators demonstrates more than a benevolent act, but a commitment to respecting the dignity of residents and providing opportunities for all.