Introduction
In a world where children’s safety and well-being are increasingly under threat, it is more important than ever to come together and find solutions.
The Assupol Community Trust ECD Indaba 2025, themed “Uniting to Protect Children,” was a crucial step towards addressing the alarming rates of child neglect, abuse, and deprivation in South Africa.
As the world grapples with the challenges of ensuring the safety and well-being of its most vulnerable citizens – children – South Africa is taking significant strides in addressing this critical issue.
On the 30th of September 2025, the Assupol Community Trust ECD Indaba brought together key stakeholders, including Ms. Palesa Tyatyi, COO, and Mrs. Nabaska Arumugam, Facilitator and Compliance Officer at Motheo Training Institute Trust, to discuss the pressing matter of protecting children.
The Indaba, themed “Uniting to Protect Children,” highlighted the alarming statistics of child neglect, abuse, and deprivation, with 26,000 reported cases between 2024 and 2025.
Dr. Vuyelwa Nhlapo, CEO of Assupol Community Trust, emphasised the importance of collective efforts in safeguarding children’s rights.
Speakers at the event stressed the need for
1. Increased vigilance:
Identifying and reporting cases of child abuse and neglect to local authorities.
2. Parental involvement:
Encouraging parents to take an active role in their children’s learning and development.
3. Safe environments:
Creating safe spaces at home and in schools to protect children from harm.
4. Indigenous practices:
Promoting cultural practices that support child development.
5. Family strengthening:
Enhancing family and parenting programmes to support children’s well-being.
Motheo Training Institute Trust remains committed to championing Early Childhood Development (ECD) and providing quality training to equip caregivers and educators with the skills to protect and nurture young minds. Our dedicated staff, including Ms. Palesa Tyatyi and Mrs. Nabaska Arumugam, are passionate about creating a safer and more supportive environment for South Africa’s children.
As we move forward, it is clear that protecting children requires a collective effort.
We urge individuals, communities, organisations, and government to join forces in creating a brighter future for our children and by working together, we can ensure that our children receive the care, support, and protection they deserve.
Motheo Training Institute Trust Continues to Empowering a Brighter Future
Through our quality ECD training programmes, we are empowering caregivers and educators to provide the best possible care for young children.
Our dedicated staff are committed to making a positive impact in the lives of South Africa’s children.
Let us unite to protect our future – our children.
Conclusion
As we reflect on the key takeaways from the Assupol Community Trust ECD Indaba 2025, it is clear that protecting children requires a collective effort and by working together, we can create a safer and more supportive environment for South Africa’s children.
Motheo Training Institute Trust remains committed to championing ECD and providing quality training to empower caregivers and educators.
Let us unite to protect our future – our children – and ensure they receive the care, support, and protection they deserve.
Rex Molefe
(The Director of Motheo Training Institute Trust)
