Early childhood programme on campus

On 23 April 2014, the foundation phase in the Faculty of Education in the North-West University Mafikeng Campus, through the dean of education, Professor Gericke, organised a two-day community programme called Cross-Trainer Program. The purpose of the programme is another way for the university to get involved in uplifting communities, especially involvement in the early childhood education (ECE) learner. The Mafikeng Campus has sponsored the programme, donating about R4 000 for it to run smoothly.

According to project manager, Rita Strydom, this is a free programme which is aimed at teaching and equipping foundation phase teachers with better knowledge on how to look after children aged 0 to six years. The programme also aimed at guiding foundation teachers to equip children to be ready for grade 1 or formal education.

Dr Myrtle Erasmus, co-ordinator of foundation phase, says the project has managed to attract the largest group of foundation phase trainee teachers across the North West province only. The programme has thus far donated books in different pre-primary schools and also guideline books for the teachers to improve the development of young ones.

Dr Erasmus highlighted that the project will run for the period of three years and there will be a regular visit from her department to all trainees' teachers to ensure the programme is sustainable and to keep the trainees motivated.