New R11 million ECD centre set to benefit 160 San children

A SIGNIFICANT groundbreaking ceremony for a new early childhood development (ECD) centre in Platfontein is set to take place on Thursday, October 3. The project, implemented in partnership with the Northern Cape Department of Education, is made possible by a generous donation from the Palms for Life Fund.

The event is set to be attended by the premier of the Northern Cape, senior officials from the Department of Education, local partners, and members of the Platfontein community.

The ECD centre represents a major advancement for 160 San children aged 2 to 5, who will have the opportunity to access early childhood education in a safe and nurturing environment for the first time in their lives.

The curriculum will focus on age-appropriate learning while celebrating the children’s cultural heritage and promoting the use of their mother tongue in the classroom. In addition to education, the children will receive nutritious meals, including breakfast and a hot lunch, each day.

The new facility, designed and set to be built by ATENU Developments, will feature fully equipped classrooms, child-friendly ablution facilities, a kitchen, and designated areas for play and learning. The centre will be powered by solar energy. The total construction cost is R11 million, with completion anticipated by mid-2025.

Fifteen teachers from the !Xun and Khwe San groups are currently undergoing specialised training in early childhood education, ensuring that the centre upholds the highest standards of care and instruction.

"Every child deserves access to quality education, and this centre represents a transformative step for Platfontein. We are honoured to be part of this journey," said Hannah Laufer-Rottman, the founder and executive director of Palms for Life Fund.

The groundbreaking ceremony will showcase cultural performances by local artists and children, reflecting the rich traditions of the Platfontein San community.

The event will also mark a new chapter for Platfontein, where education, culture, and community will converge to shape the future of its youngest members. This initiative is part of the Palms for Life Fund’s broader mission to promote education, food security, and access to basic services in marginalised communities across Southern Africa.

"We are dedicated to empowering communities through education at its most critical stage – early childhood. By working closely with the government and community stakeholders, we aim to foster sustainable development and better outcomes for the children of Platfontein," added Laufer-Rottman.