"I contest universalised assumptions of who young children are," says Prof Hasina Banu Ebrahim, an NRF C1-rated researcher from the College of Education, Unisa.
The Department of Early Childhood Education and Development equips pre- and in-service teachers with the knowledge and skills necessary to support the developmental needs of young children from birth to approximately nine years of age. These years cover both the early childhood education and the foundation phase of schooling.
Prof Thembi Phala
Chair of the Department
Welcome to the Department of Early Childhood Education and Development, a vibrant community dedicated to shaping the futures of those who will shape the futures of our youngest learners. We believe that the foundation for a lifetime of learning, growth, and well-being is built in these critical early years, and our purpose is to empower you to be a leader in this transformative field.
At the heart of our department is an unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation. We recognise that our students are a diverse group of passionate individuals, from those just beginning their journey in education to experienced in-service teachers seeking to advance their expertise around the globe. That is why our programmes are intentionally designed to meet you where you are. Through our flexible and comprehensive Open Distance e-Learning (ODeL) approach, we break down barriers to education, making high-quality learning accessible to all. We are here to equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to make a profound and lasting impact in the lives of young children, no matter where you are.
We envision a world where all early childhood education professionals, empowered by quality ODeL, are prepared to act in the best interest of each individual child’s holistic development.
To realise this vision, our mission is multifaceted and deeply rooted in academic excellence, research, community engagement, and collaborative partnerships, both nationally and internationally.
We invite you to explore our department and discover how you can join us in this vital mission. Whether you are taking your first steps or are ready to take your career to the next level, we are here to support you on your journey.
Prof Thembi Phala
Chair of the Department