This year, Sesame Workshop South Africa marks a quarter century of impact by entering a new chapter through a forward-focused partnership with the Department of Basic Education (DBE) aimed at driving Early Childhood Development (ECD) registration across the country. The partnership forms part of the 'Bana Pele' ('Putting Children First') campaign, says Sesame Workshop South Africa.
Over the past 25 years, Takalani Sesame has been dedicated to early childhood education in South Africa. What began as a pioneering television show has become a cultural mainstay, reaching over 7-million viewers and being embraced by 95% of households with young children. From launching the world's first HIV-positive Muppet, Kami, to earning a Peabody Award for its "Talk to Me" special, Takalani Sesame has helped shape national conversations on inclusion, health and wellbeing, says the organisation.
In recent years, Sesame Workshop South Africa has deepened its commitment to inclusion by actively supporting fathers and male caregivers. Initiatives like the 'Bond Through Play' campaign and male caregiver workshops have empowered thousands of men to take a more active role in their children's development — reshaping traditional norms and promoting gender equality at home. These efforts, along with Emmy-nominated specials and nationally awarded programming, contribute to a legacy rooted in joyful learning and innovation, adds the organisation.
"For 25 years, Takalani Sesame has stood for smarter, stronger and kinder children," says Dr Onyinye Nwaneri, Managing Director of Sesame Workshop South Africa. "So, as we celebrate this milestone, we are thrilled to join hands with the Department of Basic Education to deepen our impact."
Dr Nwaneri emphasises that the partnership with the DBE is about more than merely marking an anniversary; it's about making sure every child in South Africa has the opportunity to thrive, because investing in South Africa's children today means a stronger, more successful nation tomorrow, adds the organisation.
The 'Bana Pele' campaign urges parents and guardians to support their local ECD centres to get registered with the DBE. Registration is free, and essential to accessing government support, including the recently announced R10-billion that will increase the value of the ECD subsidy and enable many more poor children to access early learning opportunities at registered centres. The drive aims to ensure that more children can benefit from compliant, safe and high-quality early learning environments, says the organisation.
The Minister of Basic Education, Ms Siviwe Gwarube, welcomed the collaboration. "Children are South Africa's greatest assets and this partnership with Sesame Workshop aligns with our vision to put our youngest citizens first and prioritise early learning as a national imperative," she says. "By registering with the Department, parents and centres are helping secure brighter futures for our youngest citizens."
Dr. Nwaneri highlighted the dual significance of ECD, positioning it as both a societal necessity and a powerful economic strategy. "ECD extends beyond education — it lays the groundwork for lifelong health, learning and overall wellbeing," she says. "Equally important, investing in quality early learning drives skills development, stimulates job creation, and fosters a more inclusive economy. These outcomes are pivotal for advancing South Africa's long-term growth and prosperity."
The 'Bana Pele' registration drive not only improves access to learning but also ensures safety and quality through a clear compliance process. ECD centres can track and improve their standards — moving from Bronze to Silver and Gold accreditation levels — with ongoing support from government and partners that share their vision and commitment, like Sesame Workshop, says the organisation.
"This campaign is about much more than just celebrating 25 years of success; it's also a call to action to the nation to work together to make sure no child is left behind," Dr Nwaneri concludes. "Whether it's through registering, ensuring early stimulation of children or simply spreading the word, everyone has a role to play in ensuring every child has the opportunity to be the best they can be."
For more information, visit www.sesameworkshop.org. You can also follow the Sesame Workshop on Facebook, X, Instagram, or on TikTok.
*Image courtesy of contributor