Are children ready to tackle future world of work?

WE OFTEN speak of South Africa's youngest citizens as tomorrow's leaders - the future innovators, decision-makers and drivers of change. But are we truly investing in that future?

- WEEEKEND ARGUS REPORTER

According to the thrivebyfive index, which measures whether South African children are being appropriately set up for future success, less than 30% of children aged 0-5 in South Africa have access to any form of Early Childhood Development (ECD) programme. What's more, only 4% are enrolled in what's considered adequate quality learning interventions.

These are critical years, forming the foundation for lifelong learning, development and future economic productivity, yet far too many children are being left behind before they even begin. From South Africa's literacy crisis, where more than 80% of Grade 4 learners cannot read for meaning, to the heavy burden placed on our economy by poverty, inequality and demand for social services, the long-term consequences of failing our children early are well documented.

A good early childhood education programme involves stimulating, play-based learning that encourages cognitive, physical, emotional and social development. This means hav-