An early learning development centre in Lwandle has since its founding three years ago flourished to become a safe space for well over 80 children, and also serves as an aftercare that contributes to their well-being as well as that of their parents.
Called Wisechoice Early Learning Development Centre, it falls under the umbrella of Wisechoise Skills Development, spearheaded by Wiseman Madikane and wife Ida.
“We initially opened in 2020 during the Covid pandemic as a place where students could study and have access to the internet,” he said, “and over time the project evolved to adhered to the needs of the community and became a creche for children from 3 months to 5 years old.”
Madikane said many parents struggle to find a place for their children while at work, and the centre has proven to be a crucial service that has been embraced by the community.
“We’ve grown immensely over the past couple years and moved into premises that have since become very limited in terms of resources and space.”
The centre has big plans next year as they want to incorporate a fun zone in an aftercare centre that will provide activities for the children, which include a playground, music classes, sports and other extra-curriculum activities. It also anticipates an increase in enrolments as an aftercare centre will attract much more interest.
“The biggest challenge we are facing right now is resources,” Madikane said. “We’ve come to realise the importance of this centre for the benefit of our community and from here we only want to improve and better serve them as best we can. But we can’t do it alone and we need support.”
He said there were many examples of the challenges faced daily by the less fortunate in the township, due particularly to lack of resources and limited options for recreation, which leads to destructive behaviour.
“Our vision is to bring change, inspire hope, motivate the youth and assist learners with the pursuit of an ambition, and it all begins from a young age. We appeal to the greater community to get in touch and assist with resources and help us help our community.”
- Madikane can be reached at 084 7491 774 or email Wisemanmadikane@yahoo.com
