Thrive by Five Report

For too long, fatherhood in South Africa has been viewed through the narrow lens of financial provision. The idea that a father’s primary responsibility is to provide materially for his children is deeply entrenched in our culture. However, while financial support is critical, it is not enough.

In the realm of Early Childhood Development (ECD), the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom is a delicate balance. As educators, caregivers, and scholars, we strive to impart not only academic skills but also values and principles that shape young minds.

On 1 December 2025, the Department of Basic Education, in partnership with the Education Outcomes Fund (EOF), and with donor support from The Lego Foundation, Yellowwoods, FirstRand, Oppenheimer Memorial Trust, and the Standard Bank Tutuwa Community Foundation, launched the first Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) outcomes fund worth R469 million.

For too long, fatherhood in South Africa has been viewed through the narrow lens of financial provision. The idea that a father’s primary responsibility is to provide materially for his children is deeply entrenched in our culture. However, while financial support is critical, it is not enough.

On the 6th of December 2025, the Gauteng Legislature’s Education Portfolio Committee hosted a Stakeholder Roundtable Discussion on Early Childhood Development (ECD), a crucial step towards ensuring quality education for South Africa’s youngest learners.

Recent headlines in South Africa have been dominated by appalling cases of bullying in schools—viral videos of ruthless attacks, and children experiencing physical and socio-emotional harm at the hands of their peers. These incidents have caused national outrage and calls for urgent action.