MEC calls for parents to verify day-care centres’ registration
"Together we can minimise these incidents, illegal crèches are causing more harm daily, but together we can put a stop to this."
Kwatsaduza – MEC for Social Development in Gauteng Thuliswa Nkabinde-Khawe urged parents to check the legitimacy of an early childhood development (ECD) centre prior to enrolling their children.
This plea came after a number of incidents occurred at various ECDs that were reported to be unregistered.
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A recent one being that of an illegal crèche in Westdene where two toddlers allegedly died due to rat poisoning.
In a statement released by the Department of Social Development, the MEC says ECDs form part of the key priorities of the Gauteng Provincial Government.
“Investment in children is not only seen as a means of giving children a good start in life, but also of developing their families and contributing to the socio-economic development of the province.
“The safety of our children at these premises is our priority,” she says.
Nkabinde-Khawe says according to the Children’s Act, ECDs should be registered as per the norms and standards, as these gives guidelines, including, safety, education and nutritional programmes.
“Parents are urged to demand registration certificates from both the municipality and social development department.
“These documents are issued after a proper assessment has been conducted and the centre is deemed satisfactory for operation.
“Let us all work together to curb the mushrooming of these illegal ECD centres, as they put our children at enormous risks,” she adds.
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Nkabinde-Khawe is calling upon parents, neighbours and communities at large to be wary of these centres.
“We need you to be the eyes and ears and we plead with you to blow the whistle.
“Together we can minimise these incidents, illegal crèches are causing more harm daily, but together we can put a stop to this.
“The department will issue a letter of enforcement to ensure a centre does not operate and will advise on the legal crèches in the area for children to be placed,” she says.
