By Ebi Kesiena
A new report on Early Childhood Development (ECD) in South Africa has raised alarm over the lack of foundational skills among young children entering the school system, warning that without urgent intervention, many risk falling behind academically for life.
The “Thrive by Five Index,” released in Sandton, Johannesburg on Monday, revealed that a significant proportion of children lack the basic developmental abilities needed to succeed in school.
Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube, described the findings as deeply concerning, noting that they represent a national crisis requiring immediate attention. “We cannot ignore the reality that too many of our children are starting school already disadvantaged,” she said, stressing the importance of early investment in learning and nutrition.
The Minister added that the report will help inform policy reforms and resource allocation, particularly in disadvantaged communities where children are most vulnerable.
Stark Findings From the Thrive by Five Index
The index, based on direct assessments of more than 5,000 four-year-olds attending early learning programmes, measured children’s progress across three critical areas: early learning, physical growth (with a focus on stunting), and social-emotional development.
Findings revealed that only 42% of children are on track for early learning, while girls were significantly ahead of boys, who are struggling in core developmental skills.
The report also highlighted how poor nutrition, low stimulation at home, and inequalities in classroom quality continue to undermine children’s ability to thrive.
Meanwhile, Sonja Giese, director of DataDrive, which led the research, described the findings as a wake-up call. “This is not just an education issue. It is a national issue that affects every South African. Children who start school without foundational skills will struggle to catch up, and that disadvantage compounds over time,” she said.
