Youth Month Sparks Urgent Call to Expand ECD Access

As South Africa marks Youth Month under the theme ‘Skills for the changing world – Empowering youth for meaningful economic participation’, a crucial truth demands more attention: the path to economic participation starts long before school, and we may already be failing children before they even enter a classroom. “Over 1.3 million children are currently locked out of early childhood …

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ECD Centres: SA’s Most Overlooked Line of Defence in Child Protection

Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres are frequently underestimated as simple drop-off points for working parents. But for the 1.7 million children attending them, these facilities are the first line of defence in protecting their rights. Ahead of National Child Protection Week, which raises awareness around the rights of children, Deb Zelezniak, CEO of the Santa Shoebox Project, says, “ECD practitioners …

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A Nation That Can’t Read Can’t Succeed

Every year, thousands of children enter formal schooling without the foundational literacy skills needed for success. Research from the World Literacy Foundation shows that children who lack early literacy skills are more likely to fall behind and face long-term educational challenges. Despite government’s recognition of early childhood development (ECD) as crucial to reversing South Africa’s literacy crisis, meaningful action has …

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Who’s Really Funding Early Childhood Development in SA?

Written by Deb Zelezniak, CEO of the Santa Shoebox Project In South Africa, a child’s future is often determined before they even step into a classroom. With just 2.2% of the basic education budget allocated to Early Childhood Development (ECD) and a mere 0.42% of the national budget, thousands of young children are left without proper care, education, or even …

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R11.2 billion Falls Short of Government’s ECD Plans

Although ECD funding will increase to R11.2 billion in the coming financial year, up from R10.5 billion, this remains far below what’s needed to expand access for every child. Deb Zelezniak, CEO of the Santa Shoebox Project, warns that the government’s plan to subsidise one million more children by 2026/27 will put immense pressure on an already underfunded sector. To …

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Why Giving Back Should Be Your Top Resolution in 2025

The most popular New Year’s resolutions for 2025 include saving money (26%), exercising more (22%), and adopting healthier eating habits (20%). Yet, one resolution that can improve both personal happiness and community well-being—giving back—remains overlooked. Deb Zelezniak, CEO of the Santa Shoebox Project, highlights how contributing to others’ well-being can improve our own happiness and mental health, which were resolutions …

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