The Minister of Child Welfare and Basic Education, Honourable Nono Kgafela-Mokoka, has highlighted ongoing developments aimed at strengthening education and child welfare nationwide. Speaking at a recent Full Council meeting in Kgatleng District, the Minister outlined initiatives designed to enhance learning, skills development, and child protection.
A key focus is the rollout of STEAM education, which reintegrates the Arts into the learning process. The Minister explained that developing technological skills alone is not enough. Interpersonal, social, and emotional development are essential for producing well-rounded learners. The inclusion of Arts alongside Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics ensures that students gain creativity and critical thinking skills in addition to technical competence.
The Ministry is also introducing multiple certification starting from lower primary levels. This approach aims to equip learners with practical skills early in their schooling. By offering additional certifications, students will have smoother transitions into technical and vocational education pathways, creating opportunities for skill acquisition and employability later in life.
Child welfare remains central to the Ministry’s agenda. Honourable Kgafela-Mokoka emphasized the importance of protecting children’s rights in all settings. The Ministry is promoting child-friendly homes and schools that uphold the protection, dignity, and overall wellbeing of every child. Initiatives aim to create environments where children can thrive both academically and socially.
The Minister also addressed school indiscipline. Recognizing the challenges schools face in managing student behavior, she announced strategies to promote discipline while maintaining safe and supportive learning environments. These measures are intended to balance structure with a focus on positive development, ensuring that schools remain spaces conducive to learning and growth.
The initiatives presented by Honourable Kgafela-Mokoka reflect a comprehensive approach to education and child welfare. By combining STEAM education, practical skill development, child protection, and positive discipline strategies, the Ministry is working to prepare learners for future challenges while safeguarding their rights and wellbeing.
