Sesame Workshop and Department of Basic Education puts early childhood education at heart of country’s future
Sesame Workshop South Africa marks 25 years of early learning impact with a bold new partnership to register and improve ECD centres across the country.
Sesame Workshop South Africa is celebrating 25 years of inspiring, educating, and supporting young children across the country. Known for its popular programme: Takalani Sesame, the non-profit organisation has used its lovable puppets, songs, and stories to promote early learning, health, and inclusion.
To mark this milestone, Sesame Workshop is teaming up with the Department of Basic Education (DBE) in a new partnership that puts early childhood education at the heart of the country’s future. This collaboration is part of the Bana Pele campaign, which means: Putting Children First, in Sesotho.
Read more: Fathers embrace parenting through Sesame Workshop project
The primary objective of the partnership is to facilitate the nationwide registration of early childhood development (ECD) centres. Registering these centres ensures that more children can learn in safe, high-quality, and officially supported environments.
Dr Onyinye Nwaneri, managing director of Sesame Workshop South Africa, said the partnership is not just about looking back; it’s about building a brighter future. “For 25 years, Takalani Sesame has stood for smarter, stronger, and kinder children. We are excited to deepen our impact through this new chapter with the DBE.”
Over the years, Takalani Sesame has become a household name, reaching millions of children and families. Its most notable work includes the introduction of Kami, the world’s first HIV-positive puppet, and special programmes promoting inclusion and mental health.
The Bana Pele campaign encourages parents and ECD centres to register with the DBE. Registration is free and opens access to support, such as the newly announced R10b fund, which will help more underprivileged children receive early learning opportunities.
Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube welcomed the partnership, calling children: South Africa’s greatest assets. She added: “By registering with the department, parents, and centres are helping secure brighter futures for our youngest citizens.”
Nwaneri also noted that early childhood education is key, not only to learning, but also to national growth. “ECD lays the foundation for lifelong well-being and also boosts job creation and skills development.”
The campaign also supports centres in improving their quality step by step, with bronze, silver, and gold levels of recognition, based on compliance and adherence to standards. “This isn’t just a celebration; it’s a call to action,” said Nwaneri. “Whether you’re a parent, carer, teacher, or neighbour, everyone can help make sure no child is left behind.”
Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We’d love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts!
