Nursery schools urged to be compliant

Lebogang Mosikare | Wednesday August 21, 2019 16:07

This was said by the Principal Home Economics Officer at the Francistown City Council (FCC) Natasha Maphane at the day care centre workshop that is currently ongoing at the Civic Centre Hall. 

Giving the objectives of the workshop, Maphane said the workshop was convened to discuss childhood development and education. 

“We want to make sure that we don’t leave important aspects of early childhood education behind. We want to know if you are familiar with the childhood education curriculum. Day care centres contribute to the economy of the country because they employ some people,” said Maphane. 

On the overview of nursery schools in Francistown, Maphane said that FCC is mandated to inspect and licence nursery schools. 

“This service is guided by the early childhood care education policy of 2001, FCC bye-laws of 1997 and FCC day care centres guidelines. As of now, there are 74 nursery schools in Francistown. Out of this, 50 are licensed, 23 are not licensed while one is closed,” said Maphane. 

She said that while doing a random inspection of the nursery schools in Francistown, they found out that some of the nursery schools were not compliant with rules and regulations governing their operations. 

“We came to your centres and found things that were not satisfactory hence we urge you to comply with all regulations that regulate your operations. We want you to exist so that our children can enjoy good early childhood education,” said Maphane. 

Earlier on when giving welcome remarks, the acting deputy town clerk technical services Thuto Obakeng said that nursery schools were a sensitive area that needs to be handled with due diligence and care.

He added: “You have to be very conversant with procedures that are in place governing children’s education,” he advised.