Government ECD subsidies reaches 900 000 children

Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube says the number of children accessing Early Childhood Development services through government subsidies has increased from 700 ooo to 900 ooo.

Gwarube was speaking at the Early Childhood Development (ECD ) Summit in Sandton, Johannesburg, held under the theme “Bana Pele”.

The summit aims to develop strategies to strengthen ECD education and ensure it is future-ready.

Gwarube says government is making progress. #BanaPeleLeadershipSummit2026 | FROM BLUEPRINT TO MOVEMENT Quality early learning is not just the starting point of a child’s education; it is the foundation of South Africa’s future.

Today, Minister of Basic Education, Ms Siviwe Gwarube, alongside Deputy Minister Dr Reginah Mhaule and Director General Mr Mathanzima Mweli are hosting the second annual Bana Pele Leadership Summit, advancing her commitment to placing Early Childhood Development (ECD) at the centre of the country’s education agenda.

Building on the Shared Blueprint established in 2025, the Summit brings together government, business, civil society and communities to turn a shared vision into action. #BanaPele #ECD #ChildrenFirst #StrongFoundationsStrongFutures #EarlyLearning #EducationZA #GovZAUpdates — Dep.

Basic Education (@DBE_SA) October 19, 2026 Gwarube adds that today more children are reached than at any other time in history.

“Two years ago, 7oo 000 were receiving ECD subsidies.

Today, 900 000 are receiving subsidies from government; that is more than 250 000 children receiving the support that they need.”