Ofentse is a Grade 6 pupil whose love for learning was nurtured at a Cotlands ECD centre in Lydenburg. Her dedication to her schoolwork earned her a spot in the GrowSmart inter-schools competition, where she secured first place in the literacy category, winning a substantial prize for her school!
Lydenburg, South Africa (27 January 2025) – For 88 years, Cotlands has been a beacon of hope for vulnerable children, empowering them through play-based early learning and giving them the tools to thrive in school and life.
This year, the charity celebrates its journey with the 88 Stories of Impact campaign, highlighting real success stories of children who have benefited from their programmes and are now excelling in formal education.
One such inspiring story is of Grade 6 Lydenburg Primary School pupil Ofentse, whose love for learning was nurtured by Cotlands, paving her path to becoming a top-performing student and literacy champion.
According to Cotlands Mpumalanga Regional Manager Thandi, most parents struggle to pay fees for Early Childhood Development Centres.
The Cotlands ECD Centre in Lydenberg has helped many children from disadvantaged backgrounds learn through play as well as gain cognitive and social skills.
Ofentse attended the centre when she was two years old. There, she gained a wealth of knowledge, skills, and development, which allowed her to hit the ground running in primary school.
The bright pupil has won various academic awards for her stellar performance in the classroom.
She was selected to participate in the GrowSmart inter-schools competition last year, where she excelled! Ofentse won first place in the literacy competition, winning her school R100,000 worth of equipment, including laptops and various educational materials.
How far you go in life is significantly influenced by your foundation. Our shining star, Ofenste’s achievements, solidify the importance of ECD in a young child’s life, setting them up for future success!
Sources: Cotlands
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