Publications
Partners
The Pikkewyntjie Crèche, a cornerstone for the last 30 years in the Greenpoint community in Kimberley, has started the school year with a significant upgrade to its facilities.
This renovation enhances safety, space, and the overall learning environment for its young attendees and staff.
Established in 1994, the crèche has been an integral part of the community’s heritage, nurturing multiple generations. With two original staff members still part of the team, the crèche’s commitment to early childhood development (ECD) remains unwavering.
Hlengiwe Radebe, economic development director for Droogfontein Solar Power, which spearheaded this project as part of its socio-economic development programme, highlighted the dual objectives: enhancing educational quality and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
The project, completed in December 2023, underscores the shared vision of Droogfontein Solar Power and the Department of Education to enhance ECDs across Kimberley and its surrounding areas.
The renovation included significant structural repairs and upgrades, including:
the repair of damaged roof structures and ceilings, ensuring a safe environment;
overhauling of toilet facilities, with separate areas for boys and girls and modifications suited for young children;
replacement and repair of outdoor play equipment to meet safety standards;.
the conversion of a non-functional library into a classroom, increasing the crèche’s capacity to 75 children;
upgrading of the toddler room and kitchen for enhanced safety and functionality; and
commitment to providing new educational materials in the upcoming quarter.
This renovation marks the second ECD centre in the vicinity to receive support from the solar plant’s development initiative within a year, coming after the Helen Joseph ECD centre’s upgrade.
The programme aids ECD practitioners in Riverton, Ritchie, Barkly West, and Kimberley, by enhancing their skills and qualifications, provides management and mentorship to centre managers, and guarantees that ECD centres adhere to national norms and standards, thereby raising the standard of education and care.
