Motheo Training Institute Trust

19/03/2026

Unleashing the Polyglots: How Play Pedagogy Unlocks Children's Hundred Languages

Introduction:

In a world where diversity is celebrated, it is ironic that children's unique voices are often silenced by rigid educational structures. But what if we told you that children are capable of speaking a hundred languages? Not just linguistically, but emotionally, socially, and creatively. This is the premise of the "Hundred Languages" concept, inspired by Loris Malaguzzi's philosophy that children have multiple ways of expressing themselves.

Therefore, in this article, I will explore how play pedagogy can unlock these languages, and thus foster holistic development and a lifelong love of learning.

The Significance of Play:

Play is more than just fun and games; it is a fundamental aspect of childhood development.

According to Vygotsky's Social Constructivist Theory, play is a critical zone of proximal development, where children learn to navigate social relationships, negotiate rules, and develop problem-solving skills.

Play pedagogy, therefore, is not just an add-on, but a crucial component of early childhood education.

Through play, children explore, experiment, and make sense of the world around them. It is a language in itself, one that transcends words and speaks directly to the imagination. As Malaguzzi said, "The hundred languages are not just a metaphor; they are a reality that we can observe in children's play."

Unlocking the Languages:

So, how can we unlock these hundred languages?

Play pedagogy offers a range of strategies:

1. Free Play:

Provide open-ended materials and environments that invite exploration and creativity.

This is where children's imagination runs wild, and they develop problem-solving skills.

2. Guided Play:

Offer gentle guidance and scaffolding, thus allowing children to take the lead while providing support and feedback.

This is where Vygotsky's zone of proximal development comes alive.

3. Risk-Taking:

Encourage children to take calculated risks, thus developing resilience and confidence.

This is where they learn to navigate challenges and develop a growth mindset.

Theories in Action:

Play-based pedagogy is rooted in various theories, including the following:

1. Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Theory:

Play is a critical component of the microsystem, which influences children's development and relationships.

2. Gardner's Multiple Intelligences:

Play caters to diverse learning styles and intelligences, and thus recognises that children have multiple strengths and talents.

Conclusion:

As we strive to prepare children for an ever-changing world, let us not forget the power of play.

Through embracing play-based pedagogy, we can unlock the hundred languages of children and thus foster creativity, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of learning.

So, let us give children the gift of play, and watch them speak the languages of the future.

Play is not just play, but it is a human rights issue!

Thank you.

Rex Molefe
(The Director of Motheo Training Institute Trust)

17/03/2026

https://ecdinfohub.org/breaking-barriers-the-urgent-need-for-waiving-development-charges-for-ecd-centres/

https://ecdinfohub.org/the-stipend-dilemma-unpacking-volunteering-in-ecd-centers-and-labour-laws

In South Africa, many individuals volunteer in Early Childhood Development (ECD) centers and often receiving a stipend below the minimum wage. This then led to a critical question and that is to ask whether this practice is lawful or not? Let us dive deeper into the laws governing volunteering and e...

10/03/2026

Empowering Futures: Motheo Training Institute Trust Welcomes the Next Generation of ECD Professionals

Introduction:

Motheo Training Institute Trust, a leading Education, Training, and Skills Development Provider, hosted a successful orientation session for new ECD students at its main campus today.

The event, facilitated by Chief Operating Officer Ms Paleasa Tyatyi, alongside Ms Sibongile Xaba and Ms Jubulile Bereng, marked the beginning of a transformative journey for the students embarking on the ECD National Diploma programme.

Setting the Stage for Success:

The orientation session aimed to introduce students to Motheo's culture, values, and academic expectations, and thus ensure a seamless transition into their studies. Ms Tyatyi emphasised Motheo's commitment to quality ECD training, highlighting the institute's accreditation and reputation as a trusted provider in South Africa and beyond.

Championing Quality ECD Training:

Motheo Training Institute Trust is dedicated to empowering individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the ECD sector. With a focus on practical, industry-relevant training, students are equipped to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young children.

A Legacy of Excellence:

As an accredited and reputable institution, Motheo Training Institute Trust continues to uphold its mission of providing high-quality education and training.

The ECD National Diploma programme is designed to equip students with the expertise and confidence to drive positive change in the ECD sector.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Motheo Training Institute Trust is proud to welcome its new ECD students and looks forward to their growth and success.

We are committed to supporting our students every step of the way and thus fostering a community of dedicated and passionate ECD professionals who will shape the future of South Africa's children.

Early Childhood Development matters in the development of a successful Nation!

Thank you.

Rex Molefe
(The Director of Motheo Training Institute Trust)

06/03/2026

The ECD Funding Crisis: A Lick and a Promise?

Introduction:

In South Africa, the Early Childhood Development (ECD) sector is at a critical juncture, with allocated funds hanging in the balance.

The effective management of ECD budgets is crucial, and non-compliance with legislative requirements can have dire consequences.

The Legal Framework:

The Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) regulates public funds management, and key provisions include the following:

1. Section 44(1) of PFMA:

Departments must spend their budgets efficiently and effectively.

2. Section 44(2) of PMFA:

Unspent funds may be surrendered to the Treasury.

3. Section 53 of PMFA:

Departments must manage their finances responsibly.

Budget Management and Rollover Requests:

A)Rollover Procedure:

Departments can request a rollover of unspent funds, subject to Treasury approval, and this is in line with PFMA Section 44(3).

B)Timeframe:

Rollover requests typically must be submitted before the financial year-end (March 31st), and the following criteria must be used:

* Treasury considers factors like project progress, commitment to spend funds, and alignment with government priorities.

ECD Budget Allocation and Subsidy:

1. Subsidy Allocation:

The ECD subsidy is typically allocated for specific purposes, such as nutrition, education, practitioner training and so forth.

2. Eligible Expenses:

Funds should be spent on approved items, like infrastructure, learning materials, and staff development and so forth.

Legislative Requirements for Budget Adjustments:

Section 43 of the PFMA demands that the Departments must obtain Treasury approval for budget adjustments.

The National Treasury Regulations demand that the Departments must comply with regulations governing budget management and financial reporting.

Consequences of Non-Compliance:

i)Return to Treasury:

Unspent funds may revert to the Treasury, thus impacting future allocations.

ii) Impact on ECD Services:

Reduced funding can compromise ECD services and thus affect vulnerable children.

iii) Accountability:

Departments may face scrutiny for inefficient budget management.

Key Dates and Deadlines to Note:

- Financial Year-End:

March 31st

- Rollover Requests:

Submit before March 31st

- Budget Adjustments:

Departments should adjust budgets to ensure efficient spending

Best Practices for ECD Budget Management:

Prioritise spending to ensure alignment with government priorities and ECD needs.

Monitor and report
Accurate financial reporting is crucial for transparency and accountability.

Communicate effectively with stakeholders to inform them about budget decisions and ECD services.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the ECD sector's funding crisis demands urgent attention.

Therefore, the Departments must navigate legislative requirements, prioritise spending, and communicate effectively to ensure the best possible outcomes for ECD services.

We are nearing the financial end, and the status of budget expenditure in different provinces poses serious concerns. The main concern is whether the budget allocated will be spent before the end of the financial year, or whether it will be a question of underexpenditure.

The future of South Africa's youngest citizens hangs in the balance if urgency is not demonstrated in this regard.

Thank you.

Rex Molefe
(The Director of Motheo Training Institute Trust)

05/03/2026

The Stipend Dilemma: Unpacking Volunteering in ECD Centres and Labour Laws

Introduction:

In South Africa, many individuals volunteer in Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres, and often receive a stipend below the minimum wage.

This then led to a critical question, and that is to ask whether this practice is lawful or not.

Let us dive deeper into the laws governing volunteering and employment.

Volunteering vs. Employment:

The Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA) defines an employee as someone who works for an employer and receives remuneration, and that is in Section 1 of Basic Conditions of Employment Act.

Volunteers typically do not receive payment or receive a stipend not considered remuneration.
the
However, if a volunteer receives a stipend below the minimum wage, it may be considered employment, and thus entitle them to minimum wage protections. In this regard, the Labour Court considers factors like control,
dependence, and economic reality to determine employment status as it is shown in the matter between Kylie v CCMA, 2008.

Labour Laws and Volunteers:

The BCEA and Labour Relations Act (LRA) regulate employment relationships.

The National Minimum Wage Act (NMWA) sets the minimum wage (currently R28.79 per hour as of March 2025, and this is in Section 3 of the Minimum Wage Act.

Therefore, paying volunteers a stipend below this rate may violate the NMWA if they are deemed employees.

Section 4 of the NMWA prohibits paying wages below the minimum wage, except for exemptions. This means that if ECD Centres have volunteers and they want to pay them a stipend below minimum wage based on their budgetary constraints, they should then apply for exemption.

Case Law Insights:

- Kylie v CCMA (2008):

In this matter, the Labour Court ruled that an individual receiving a stipend was an employee, and thus emphasised control and dependence factors.

The court considered the nature of the work, payment, and level of control exercised by the employer.

- S v Oakes (2018):

In this matter, the court held that stipends below minimum wage may constitute employment, and thus entitle individuals to minimum wage protections.

The court prioritised substance over form, and thus focused on the actual employment relationship.

Implications for ECD Centres:

1. If volunteers are deemed employees, stipends below minimum wage may be unlawful.
2. ECD centres should review arrangements to ensure compliance with labour laws, and thus consider factors like control, dependence, and economic reality.
3. Potential risks include non-compliance with BCEA and NMWA, possible unfair labour practice claims, and reputational damage.

Conclusion;

In conclusion, volunteers in ECD centres receiving stipends below minimum wage may be entitled to minimum wage protections.

Therefore, Employers should review their arrangements to ensure compliance with labour laws, and thus prioritise substance over form.

Thank you.

Rex Molefe
(The Director of Motheo Training Institute Trust)

02/03/2026

A Mixed Bag for ECD: Budget 2026 Brings Both Hope and Concern

Introduction:

The 2026 Budget has brought both hope and concern for the Early Childhood Development (ECD) sector in South Africa.

On one hand, the budget allocates an additional R12.8 billion over the next three years to expand ECD services, targeting an additional 300,000 children. This brings the total number of children benefiting from the ECD subsidy to 1.5 million by 2027/28. The daily subsidy per child has been increased to R24.

However, the economic experts warn that the allocated R11.2 billion falls short of the government's ECD plans, and I am not an economist, but I fully agree with this view based on our own interrogation and analysis with colleagues, which informs this write-up or article.

The Santa Shoebox Project's CEO, Deb Zelezniak, notes that accommodating the increased demand would require 25,641 more ECD centres and 119,740 additional staff members, which seems unfeasible given the current funding constraints.

Key Implications:

1. Insufficient Funding:

The allocated R11.2 billion is insufficient to meet the ECD needs, with an estimated R30 billion required to ensure quality early education.

2. Staffing Concerns:

Shortage of ECD practitioners and centres, with nearly half of practitioners lacking formal qualifications.

3. Infrastructure Gaps:

45% of ECD centres lack running water, 40% have no sewage connections, and 34% have no outdoor play areas.

We therefore call on the government to increase ECD funding, not to regress on their initial 10 Billion Rand that was allocated.

Conclusion:

Inclusion, we recommend and propose the following potential solutions:

1. Increase Funding:

Allocate more funds to ECD to address staffing, infrastructure, and resource gaps.

2. Reclassify ECD Practitioners:

Recognise ECD teachers as teaching professionals, providing career stability and benefits.

3. Upskill Practitioners:

Provide training and qualifications for ECD educators to improve quality education.

Thank you.

Rex Molefe
(The Director of Motheo Training Institute Trust)

19/02/2026

https://ecdinfohub.org/nurturing-wisdom-in-early-childhood-the-
peril-of-the-misguided-scholar/

https://ecdinfohub.org/empowering-young-minds-motheo-training-institute-trust-shines-at-gauteng-legislatures-ecd-stakeholder-roundtable/

In the realm of Early Childhood Development (ECD), the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom is a delicate balance.As educators, caregivers, and scholars, we strive to impart not only academic skills but also values and principles that shape young minds.However, when we stray from the path of wisdom, we r...

19/02/2026

https://ecdinfohub.org/nurturing-wisdom-in-early-childhood-the-peril-of-the-misguided-scholar/

https://ecdinfohub.org/empowering-young-minds-motheo-training-institute-trust-shines-at-gauteng-legislatures-ecd-stakeholder-roundtable/

On the 6th of December 2025, the Gauteng Legislature’s Education Portfolio Committee hosted a Stakeholder Roundtable Discussion on Early Childhood Development (ECD), a crucial step towards ensuring quality education for South Africa’s youngest learners. Ms. Palesa Tyatyi, Chief Operating Officer...

19/02/2026

Breaking Barriers: The Urgent Need for Waiving Development Charges for ECD Centres

Introduction:

The Pretoria metro's recent decision to waive development charges for Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres in certain areas is a game-changer for the ECD sector.

This move acknowledges the significant financial burden these charges impose on ECD centres, and thus prevents many from registering as partial care facilities with the Department of Basic Education (DBE).

The Struggle is Real:

Development charges can be crippling for ECD centres, especially those in historically disadvantaged areas.

Without registration, these centres cannot access government subsidies, and this is compromising their ability to provide quality education and care.

In South Africa, 43% of childcare centres remain unregistered, and this is denying children access to quality education and thus perpetuating educational disparities (Stats SA, 2020).

Legislative Support:

The Children's Act 38 of 2005 emphasises the importance of ECD, stating that every child has the right to basic education.

The Municipal Systems Act 32 of 2000 allows municipalities to waive fees, including development charges, to support ECD centres and this is what we are appealing for.

DBE Strategy 2030:

The DBE's 2030 Strategy for ECD Programmes aims to provide universal access to early childhood development, including two years of quality preschool. This strategy recognises the importance of investing in ECD to improve education outcomes and reduce inequalities (DBE, 2020).

Supporting ECD Centres:

Waiving development charges can help ECD centres in several ways:

1. Increased Access to Government Subsidies:

Registered ECD centres can access government subsidies, including the per-child daily subsidy.

2. Improved Registration Rates:

Waiving development charges can encourage more ECD centres to register, and thus improve accountability and quality education.

3. Enhanced Quality Education:

Registered ECD centres can access training, resources, and support, thus enhancing the quality of education (DBE, 2020; Tshwane Municipal Bylaw, 2020).

DBE Initiatives:

The DBE has launched several initiatives to support ECD centres, including:

- Bana Pele Mass Registration Drive:

Aims to simplify the registration process and increase registration rates.

- ECD Subsidy:

Provides a daily amount for eligible children at registered ECD centres.

- Practitioner Training:

Offers NQF Level 4 training for ECD practitioners (DBE, 2020).

Our appeal is simple: waive development charges, and this is possible and can be done within the existing legislative framework.

Conclusion:

Waiving development charges is a critical step towards unlocking the potential of ECD centres.

Municipalities should prioritise initiatives that remove barriers to registration, and thus ensure more children have access to quality education and care.

Therefore, by doing so, we can lay the foundation for a brighter future.

Thank you.
Rex Molefe
(The Director of Motheo Training Institute Trust)

18/02/2026

Empowering ECDs: Insights from the Gauteng DBE Engagement Meeting

Introduction:

The Early Childhood Development (ECD) sector in Gauteng took a significant step forward with a productive engagement meeting held at Danie Theron Primary School in Kibler Park, Johannesburg South.

The meeting, which was organised and convened by Gauteng DBE and by attended by Director of Motheo Training Institute Trust, Mr. Rex Molefe, brought together ECD Associations, Forums, and officials from the Gauteng Department of Basic Education (DBE).

The meeting provided updates on key initiatives, including the Gauteng DBE ECD strategy and the Banapele mass registration drive. The Director-Mrs. Phumelele Tloubatla shared insights into the department's plans, while Ms. Khutala Mnguni highlighted progress on the registration drive. Mr. Rex Molefe led a detailed discussion on the Budget and Expropriation Bill, explaining the step-by-step processes and allocation of funds to provinces. He shed light on the implications of the R10 billion allocated to ECD Early Learning Programmes and addressed concerns on payment delays, including the R24,00 subsidies.

The meeting also covered the ECD Human Resource Development Plan and Qualifications through Mr. Rex Molefe who provided an update, with attendees engaging actively and raising questions.

The DBE officials provided responses, and the session underscored the importance of direct engagement with ECD stakeholders.

Conclusion:

The meeting marked a significant milestone in the DBE's efforts to collaborate with ECD Associations and Forums. As these engagements continue, the sector anticipates further progress in supporting quality early childhood education.

The commitment to taking these meetings to communities demonstrates a dedication to inclusivity and empowerment.

Thank you.

Rex Molefe
(The Director of Motheo Training Institute Trust)

12/02/2026

The Price of Wisdom: Leading with Integrity in Early Childhood Development

Introduction:

In the realm of Early Childhood Development (ECD), leaders are often faced with choices that test their resolve: conform to the noise or stand firm in wisdom.

As I reflect, "Being hated by fools is the price you pay for refusing to be one", and I believe that this is speaking directly to the heart of ECD leadership, where integrity and emotional intelligence are the bedrocks of transformative change.

There is a quiet tax that comes with wisdom. The moment you choose discipline over drama, truth over trends, and principles over popularity, you automatically become “strange” to those who live without direction.

Being hated by fools is not a curse; it is often confirmation. When you refuse to laugh at foolishness, participate in gossip, chase shortcuts, or celebrate corruption, you threaten those who do. Your very existence becomes a mirror they do not want to look into.

In ECD, this wisdom translates to leaders who prioritise the best interests of children over convenience or appeasement.

When you champion quality education, equity, and child-centered practices, you may unsettle systems resistant to change. Yet, this is where emotional intelligence becomes a leader’s superpower: navigating resistance with empathy while staying anchored in purpose.

As African proverbs remind us, “The lizard that refuses to dance with the crowd is called proud,” and “When a fool is applauded, the wise man is questioned” and this African wisdom is what inspired me as a leader.

Society sometimes rewards noise more than knowledge. If you choose integrity, you may lose shallow friendships, but you gain self-respect-a currency that never loses value.

Fools dislike what exposes them. When you work hard, the lazy feel insulted. When you speak truth, the dishonest feel attacked. When you stay focused, the distracted feel judged but remember: “The sun does not argue with darkness; it simply shines” and always rember this African proverb. Your role is not to convince everyone. Your role is to remain steady.

Lessons for ECD Leaders:

1. Not everyone’s approval is worth having.
2. Integrity will sometimes isolate you before it elevates you.
3. Criticism from fools is often evidence of growth.
4. Standing alone is better than standing wrong.

As I conclude, “Do not shrink yourself to fit into small minds. If foolish people dislike you for choosing wisdom, consider it a badge of honor".

Conclusion:

In ECD leadership, wisdom is not just about knowledge-it is about courage. It is about shining light in dark corners, even when shadows resist.

Let your integrity be the legacy you leave behind, and remember: the price of wisdom is worth every penny.

Thank you.

Rex Molefe
(The Director of Motheo Training Institute Trust)

10/02/2026

Registrations close on 28 February. We encourage all prospective students to apply before the closing date to avoid disappointment