Start a Preschool for 60 Children in South Africa

Early childhood education for disadvantaged children provides the highest return on investment in the world today, according to James Heckman, Nobel Prize-winning economist, from the University of Chicago. Based on years of research, Heckman believes “Early childhood education fosters cognitive skills along with attentiveness, motivation, self-control, and sociability – the character skills that turn knowledge into know-how and people into productive citizens.”

On June 15th, your investment in Siyabonga Early Childhood Education Center will have an even greater impact. If you make a donation during Global Giving’s annual bonus day, Siyabonga can receive matching funds of up to 50%.  The event begins at 9:00 EDT on June 15 and lasts until the $110,000 in matching funds runs out. 

Siyabonga’s director, Weekend Ngubane, describes the important character skills that early childhood education programs develop in young children:

Our youngsters at Siyabonga Crèche displayed great talent in artwork recently. Inspired by their teacher, groups of four-year-olds worked together to produce beautiful pieces of artwork. The teams of five to seven members were challenged to produce an art project of their choice. Each member had to be creative and share his or her ideas with the rest of the team before a decision was made as to which project they were going to undertake.

Surprisingly, the students worked very well together, with team leaders showing the way and team members pulling together to achieve the target they had set for themselves. The students produced many beautiful and colorful pictures. The highlight of the day was a globe made by a team of seven students. They used an inflated balloon, covered it with dough, put it in a sunny spot to dry, and then painted it. Everyone in the group made a contribution, taking turns to show their creativity.

In addition to inspiring creativity, this project helped children to develop skills such as listening, communication, teamwork, and leadership.

The children shared their enthusiasm with their parents and guardians and expressed interest in doing art projects at home. Increasing parents’ involvement in the development of their children is one of Siyabonga’s goals. This project was inspired by the training our teachers have been receiving in early childhood education through Embury College. Holistic development is important to both the staff and the families of Siyabonga.

Please help Siyabonga continue their critical work with children by donating through Global Giving on Wednesday, June 15 as soon after 9:00 am EDT as you can.

https://www.globalgiving.org/projects/preschool-in-rural-south-africa/

Thank you for your support!