Thandisizwe Daycare in Ratanda recently held its graduation ceremony to celebrate the Class of 2026 as the young learners prepare to begin Grade One next year.

The ceremony brought together the learners, teachers and parents to mark an important milestone in the children’s early education journey.

The graduating learners were congratulated for their achievements, while teachers and parents were acknowledged for their role in supporting the children throughout their time at the daycare.

The ceremony also celebrated the legacy of Mam Sonto Khumalo, who has dedicated decades to early childhood development in Ratanda.

Thandisizwe Daycare has been serving the Ratanda community since 1996, making it one of the area’s longest-serving crèches.

Khumalo has taught generations of children over the years, with some parents now enrolling their own children at the daycare after attending the institution themselves.

The graduation was described as a special occasion for the children and their families, with the Class of 2026 now looking forward to the next chapter of their education.