Empowering Communities Through Early Childhood Development: ACSA & TREE ECD Graduation Ceremony

Education is the foundation of a thriving society, and early childhood development (ECD) plays a crucial role in shaping young minds for a brighter future. Recently, Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), in partnership with TREE ECD, celebrated the graduation of passionate individuals committed to nurturing the next generation.

On Tuesday, 4 February 2025, ACSA proudly celebrated its partnership with TREE ECD through a program that offers an internationally recognized Early Childhood Development qualification at NQF Level 4. A total of 29 graduates attended the ceremony, achieving an impressive 89% pass rate. This initiative, led by Gloria Phashe, ACSA Transformation & Socio-Economic Development Specialist, enhances local education standards and supports the growth and development of our future generations. Together, we are building a brighter future for our children and communities! ????

The Power of Educational Partnerships

Mr. M.W. Fikizolo, Chairman of the Board at TREE ECD, emphasized the importance of educational collaborations between ACSA and TREE ECD. He highlighted that education is a catalyst for economic progress and community growth, stressing that investing in early childhood development ensures sustainable and lasting change.

Dr. Janeli Kotze, Acting Director: Early Childhood Development at the Department of Basic Education, reinforced the necessity of equipping ECD centers to ensure children thrive by age five. The department remains dedicated to enhancing ECD programs, recognizing that nurturing young minds today lays the foundation for a prosperous South Africa tomorrow.

A Milestone Achievement in ECD

Ms. Ruby, Director of TREE ECD, proudly announced the graduation of 278 ECD practitioners out of 306 participants nationwide. This remarkable accomplishment underscores ACSA’s dedication to advancing early childhood education and fostering positive change within our communities.

Among the graduates was Lehlogonolo Maja, one of the few male ECD practitioners, breaking barriers and paving the way for greater male representation in early childhood education. His success highlights the growing inclusivity in this essential field. Let’s celebrate this milestone and the impact it will have on future generations!

Inspiring Messages for Future Educators

Ms. Phumelele Tloubatla, Director of Early Childhood Development at the Gauteng Provincial Government, inspired graduates with a powerful message about resilience in their journeys as educators. She acknowledged the challenges within the sector and urged them to remain steadfast and committed. She emphasized the importance of inclusive education, reminding us that every child’s potential can be unlocked through understanding and support.

Laurene Less, Group Executive: Corporate Services at ACSA, further inspired the graduates by highlighting the essence of Ubuntu. She emphasized that teachers are architects of young lives, shaping the future by imparting knowledge, nurturing, and guiding young minds. Encouraging them to pursue lifelong learning, she reinforced the message that educators hold the key to transformation. Let’s celebrate the invaluable role teachers play because “umuntu nguMuntu ngabantu.”

Meet Nombulelo: A Trailblazer in Early Childhood Education

Among the graduates, Nombulelo stood out as an inspiring success story. She proudly joins 29 fellow graduates in earning an internationally recognized NQF Level 4 qualification, officially marking her journey as a certified ECD Practitioner. This achievement empowers her and strengthens early learning in communities surrounding our airports.

During the ceremony, Nombulelo delivered a heartfelt message of gratitude, reflecting on the transformative impact of the training. She spoke about how the program has equipped her and her peers with essential skills to create nurturing learning environments for young children. Her story is a testament to the life-changing impact of education.

The success of this program demonstrates ACSA’s commitment to education and community upliftment. By supporting initiatives like TREE ECD, we ensure that our youngest learners have access to quality education, guided by passionate and well-trained educators.

Let’s take a moment to celebrate these incredible graduates and acknowledge the invaluable role teachers play in shaping society. Their dedication and passion pave the way for a brighter tomorrow.

Congratulations to Nombulelo and all the graduates! Your journey has just begun, and the future is filled with endless possibilities.

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