STAFF REPORTER
THE smell of freshly covered books, the shine of brand-new school shoes, and the eager anticipation of seeing friends after the holidays – it’s back-to-school time in South Africa! As schools reopen on January 15, parents breathe a sigh of relief (or nostalgia), teachers gear up for the challenges ahead, and children prepare to embark on another year of learning and discovery.
But beneath the joy of colourful lunchboxes and classroom reunions lies a critical issue: the foundational skills of numeracy and literacy. According to recent assessments, many young learners in South Africa are entering Grade 1 with worryingly low scores in these essential areas. This is not just a concern for educators – it’s a call to action for us all.
The early years of a child’s education are vital in shaping their future academic success. Yet, many children in South Africa begin Grade 1 without the necessary skills to thrive. The problem doesn’t start in the classroom; it begins far earlier, in the foundational years of Early Childhood Development (ECD).
ECD centres play a crucial role in ensuring children develop the cognitive, social, and emotional skills they need for formal schooling. It’s not just about ABCs and 123s; it’s about fostering curiosity, problem-solving abilities, and confidence. When these early milestones are missed, the gap only widens as children progress through school.
Theresa Michael, a champion of early childhood education, emphasises the importance of ECD: "We cannot underestimate the value of these formative years. ECD lays the foundation for everything that follows. When children are given the right tools and opportunities early on, they are far more likely to succeed in Grade 1 and beyond."
Low performance in numeracy and literacy has far-reaching implications. These skills are the foundation of all learning, affecting not only academic outcomes but also future opportunities. Research shows that children who fall behind in these areas are more likely to struggle throughout their schooling, leading to higher dropout rates and fewer career prospects.
Tessa Forman, an advocate for teacher empowerment, added: "Strong foundational skills in numeracy and literacy are non-negotiable for future success. But achieving this requires well-trained, passionate educators who are equipped to meet each child where they are and help them grow."
This year, we must prioritise equipping every child with the tools they need to succeed. Programmes that focus on play-based learning and teacher support in ECD centres are essential. By investing in the early years, we ensure children enter Grade 1 ready to excel. As Nelson Mandela famously said: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
This couldn’t be truer for South Africa today.
Teachers are the backbone of our education system. Their dedication shapes the minds and futures of millions of children.
Sarika Bachoo, known for her dedication to inclusive education, shares her thoughts: "Inclusion begins at the earliest stages of education. By empowering teachers with the right training and providing inclusive, outcomes-driven curricula, we can ensure no child is left behind."
Communities, too, play a vital role. Parents, caregivers, and local leaders must collaborate to support ECD centres and primary schools, fostering an environment where education is prioritised and celebrated.