The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport (GDRT) and the Gautrain Management Agency (GMA) launched an early childhood development (ECD) centre, a new addition to the existing Klipspruit West Family Centre (KWFC) on 28 San Sebastian Street, Klipspruit West, on February 6.

GMA CEO Tshepo Kgobe and board chairperson Professor Mfanelo Patrick Ntsobihe handed over the centre in dedication to the late founder, Pretty Barrenton.

It was initially meant to be handed over by MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, who was represented by her spokesperson, Lesiba Mpya.

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Ntsobi said the agency invested R1.7m to upgrade the ECD centre, marking a milestone for the community.

“This project was initiated in 2017 under the stewardship of the late Pretty Barrentine, who submitted an application to the GMA for funding to upgrade this facility,” Ntsobi said.

He said that despite several challenges during implementation, the agency was pleased that the project was completed, adding that the upgraded facility now has classrooms, amenities and a play area for young children.

“This forms part of the government’s priorities in early childhood development. Access to quality facilities has always been a barrier, and this project is helping to bridge that gap. We will continue to support the centre to ensure it is optimally used and maintained,” he added.

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Reflecting on the site’s initial state, Ntsobi said the land was previously vacant, and the existing structure was dilapidated, requiring extensive interventions.

“What we see today is the result of patience, hard work and dedication from the agency, the board and the leadership of the centre,” he said.

Zinhle Ntombela, the chairperson of the KWFC, said the newly unveiled facility fulfilled the vision of the late Mam Barrenton, who founded it more than 30 years ago.

“The centre started as a small space for vulnerable children in the area. Barrenton always had a bigger picture in mind, and what we are unveiling today is what she envisioned many years ago,” Ntombela said.

She said the original structure catered only for children older than three, but the expansion will now allow younger children to access ECD services.

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Ntombela explained that the centre would provide a proper foundation for children before entering formal schooling.

“This centre will benefit the community. It can accommodate more than 40 children, which means over 40 households can be assured that their children are safe, cared for and learning while the parents are at work,” she added.

Ntombela said the project would also create employment, as more staff would be required to support the growing number of children.

“With the support of stakeholders, including the Department of Social Development, we expect an increase in staff to meet the needs of the centre,” she said.

She praised the community and stakeholders for their co-operation throughout the project.

“The support from the community and partners has been evident. If people were against this project, we would not be here, but everyone worked together to make this day possible,” Ntombela said.

Pinky Ngwenya, a local parent of a three-year-old ECD learner at the KWFC, said she was grateful to see the upgraded facility, “I feel happy and excited to see what the Gautrain and its partners have done for this centre. It is beautiful. It means my child will be safe and learn in a proper place,” Ngwenya said.