Principal lays a strong foundation for early childhood development

PIENAAR – Winne Matsane, the principal and co-founder of Khulangelawati Preschool believes early childhood development (ECD) plays a vital role in laying a strong foundation for children.

Winnie Matsane saw a gap in her community 20 years ago when she noticed how parents struggled to find child care providers. The preschool operated for years at a different location, where she erected a shack, before moving to another place.

“I wanted to assist parents and their children in getting a good foundation to get them ready for school. I never gave up when our shacks collapsed during bad weather conditions. Fortunately, we were able to fi nd a place to build a permanent structure,” she related.

Principal of Khulangelawati Preschool, Winnie Matsane with some of the learners.
After she gave birth to her first child, she had to drop out of college due to financial constraints. But she counts it as a blessing in disguise, because she was able to establish her own school and train others. She did not give up her dream of becoming a qualified teacher, but continued studying part-time while busy at the preschool.

It may have taken a while to add classrooms over the years, but Matsane is grateful for the assistance with the curriculum and basic necessities from the government and other entities. However, she pointed out challenges, including not being able to retain staff due to lack of funds.

ALSO READ: More groups oppose Marloth mine proposal

“There isn’t much money, because some educators are dependent on stipends which are not enough in most cases. We would like the Department of Social Development to intervene, because it is important for one to have financial security. It isn’t fair for someone to volunteer for 10 years and still be paid a monthly stipend that does not even cover half of their basic living costs,” she said.

She obtained her diploma and completed all the ECD levels, but was not interested in teaching at primary school level, as she felt her heart was with the younger ones who still need to be groomed. She recently graduated with an honour’s degree in education and continues to train more students. Khulangelwati caters for children from the age of six months, including those with special needs.

ALSO READ: Carte Blance looking into Marloth mining crisis

“I am grateful that I am able to share my knowledge on child development and impart skills to other people who are committed to working with children. My priorities remain the same, and it is only to develop young ones mentally, emotionally and socially,” she concluded.