NORTHERN CAPE ECD PRACTITIONERS GRADUATE

April 2025, Droogfontein Solar Power.

In early childhood, children need a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment that supports their physical, emotional, and cognitive development. In line with this, a group of Early Childhood Development (ECD) Practitioners recently graduated from Droogfontein Solar Power’s ECD training programme, contributing to the ongoing commitment to improving the quality of early childhood education in the Northern Cape.

“This graduation marks a step forward in strengthening early childhood education in the province, ensuring that young learners receive the foundational skills needed for lifelong learning and success. We remain committed to supporting education and training initiatives that uplift local communities,” said Thandaza Teka, Economic Development Specialist for Droogfontein Solar Power.

The graduation ceremony, held at Alpha Hall in Ulco, saw eight ECD practitioners graduate alongside 34 others from across the province. “This programme taught me patience, effective communication, and most importantly, a deep love for children. The joy of young children makes me proud of the work I do because it is valuable. Taking part in this training was a privilege, and helped improve my ability to nurture and support children’s development,” expressed Agrienette Madondo, one of the graduates from Sivuyile ECD Centre.

The event was attended by esteemed stakeholders, including representatives from the Premier’s Office, the Northern Cape Department of Education, key stakeholders, funding partners and programme implementers. Personal guests of the graduates also joined the celebration, along with representatives from Droogfontein Solar Power.

“Our goals for any community are development and progress for children, as well as achieving skills and qualifications for the future workforce. Any business working within communities should align with these goals to enhance the knowledge and skills of young children in the Northern Cape,” said Mrs. Huldah Barnard, Director of Custoda Trust, programme implementation partners.

48 graduates simultaneously received their NQF Level 5 Higher Certificate in Early Childhood Development at the same event, a notable achievement in advancing their professional skills and a boost to the region.