The minister of basic education, Siviwe Gwarube, and the MEC for education, Lindi Masina, commemorated Nelson Mandela Day in Msholozi.

They visited the Early Bird Day Care Early Development Centre and Boschrand Primary School. The event encouraged communities to register their early childhood development (ECDs) centres as part of the Bana Pele registration drive.

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The child-friendly event, designed to be both fun and engaging, also featured appearances by Takalani Sesame characters and included a dedicated play zone for young children. Bana Pele aims to register 10 000 ECD centres by the end of 2025.

Registering these centres enables the department to provide formal support, training and subsidies, ensuring that children, especially those in under-resourced communities, have access to quality early learning opportunities.

During the event, Masina made an urgent plea to all stakeholders to amplify the message and assist in ensuring that all ECDs across the province are formally registered and supported.

The activities included the official handover of three newly constructed classrooms, the planting of trees, and the donation of school shoes to learners.

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The additional classrooms were donated by Ride4Hope and the Nelson Mandela Foundation.
“This investment reflects the values of Nelson Mandela, who championed education as a cornerstone of freedom and development,” said Masina.

She thanked the community, school leadership and all stakeholders for their partnership and commitment to advancing the course of education delivery. Masina paid special tribute to the minister for her leadership in mobilising resources and ensuring the success of the initiative.