DBE tables action plan to help turn around & build equitable learning system

JOHANNESBURG - The Department of Basic Education said it has tabled a five-priority action plan to help turn around and build a more equitable learning system in the country.

The solutions are set to mitigate the wide gap in early learning programmes (ELPs), following startling findings revealed by a new index report on early childhood development (ECD).

ALSO READ:

• Basic Education Minister commits R10 billion to early childhood development
• ECD report highlights urgent need for foundational skills for academic success

The national study has prioritised the five action strategies to eliminate access barriers, strengthen the early learning workforce and practices, as well as supporting positive parenting.

Oneof the proposed actions is to improve the flow of public funds to ELPs.

DataDrive director Sonja Giese said without predictable, timely funding, ELPs are financially unstable and less able to retain staff and maintain quality.

Another action to be taken would be removing financial barriers to enrolment for the most vulnerable children with targeted strategies tackling both supply and demand barriers.

The department said it'll also review training to strengthen responsive teaching. This is after the index revealed that teachers lacked current training and qualifications pathways.

Furthermore, building practitioner capacity to support children's social and emotional development by providing principals and practitioners with guidance on how to integrate everyday practices into ELP routines.

Giese said that enhancing caregiver involvement in early learning includes implementing awareness campaigns and community outreach to help families recognise the importance of developmental milestones.