While most of her early learning centre’s monthly income goes towards food and staff salaries, Mama Rittah Ngcobo attended a workshop that inspired her to take its physical infrastructure more seriously – and her community has taken notice.
uMngeni, South Africa (22 September 2026) – When we know better, we strive to do better, and Mama Rittah Ngcobo is taking a page out of that book.
As the founder and lead educator of Ziphathele ECD in Mpophomeni, she cares for 23 young learners alongside a team of two dedicated teachers and a cleaner. Now, she has renewed motivation to take her learning centre to greater heights.
With no government funding, most of the centre’s monthly income goes toward food and staff salaries, leaving very little for necessary maintenance and improvements.
However, Rittah’s eyes were recently opened to new possibilities after attending a Love uMngeni school leadership development workshop focused on maintenance, infrastructure, and creating schools of excellence.
As the only ECD practitioner in attendance, Rittah arrived first, participated wholeheartedly, asked insightful questions, and later visited Love uMngeni’s office to hand-deliver her 90-Day Challenge plan. Impressed by her eagerness and drive to absorb every detail, Love uMngeni awarded her the “Participation Champion” prize in recognition of her commitment.
It was through this workshop that Rittah identified Ziphathele’s priority maintenance needs.
“When our Education Lead visited the centre, it was clear that there is much work to be done. Yet despite having very limited resources, Rittah has done what she can to create a bright and welcoming space, decorating the teaching area with colourful posters and handmade paper bunting,” Love uMngeni shared.
In a touching response to her determination, Midmar Building Supplies raised their hand to sponsor this ECD champion!
“Midmar’s willingness to step forward and use their resources to support Ziphathele is a powerful example of what community partnership can look like. They saw a need and chose to be part of the solution,” Love uMngeni added.
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This Grade 2 Teacher Is Running Her Socks Off for Vrygrond's Pets!After reviewing the “before” photographs of her centre, Rittah looked at the pictures and declared:
“I am now fighting for the after!”
Rittah has the vision and drive. Now, her community has stepped up to help transform her learning centre as it steadily guides and nurtures the next generation.
Sources: Love uMngeni
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