Some of the children enrolled at Mikate ECD: The facility is set to transform how young children access education
A new Early Childhood Development (ECD) centre nearing completion in Group Village Headman (GVH) Mikate, under Traditional Authority (T/A) Kapichi in Thyolo district, is set to bring lasting change to early education in the area.
The facility is being constructed by Chipembere Community Development Organization (CCDO), a local NGO based in Bvumbwe, Thyolo district, as part of a broader initiative to strengthen early childhood education across the region.
GVH Mikate said the community has long struggled with a lack of infrastructure for early learners, forcing many children to study under trees or in makeshift shelters.
“We’ve waited a long time for something like this. Children in our area were learning under trees or in church buildings. Many parents simply gave up sending them. This ECD centre is a dream come true,” he said.
The new centre, comprising two classrooms and an office, is expected to improve access to early learning for dozens of children in the area, many of whom have never learned in a formal setting.
“The facility will transform how children access education here. It gives them a real chance to start their learning journey in a safe and supportive environment,” he added.
According to Florence Nthangalama, one of the caregivers at the centre, the building was designed to accommodate over 80 learners, but demand has already surpassed expectations. So far, 67 children have enrolled even before the centre officially opens.
“It’s a clear sign that parents here are eager to invest in their children’s future. The building isn’t even complete, and we’re already oversubscribed,” she said.
Sandrina Chaplain, Project Officer at CCDO, said the Mikate facility is one of several investments the organization is making to promote early learning in Thyolo.
“ECD lays the foundation for lifelong learning and success. That’s why we’re committed to investing in these centres.
In addition to Mikate, we’ve constructed another ECD centre in Mkalozwa under T/A Changata and renovated one in T/A Mchilamwera. It’s all about ensuring that no child is left behind,” said Chaplain.
To support quality learning, CCDO has also trained six caregivers two each from Mikate, Mkalozwa, and Mchilamwera in child-friendly teaching methods, nutrition, safety, and inclusive education.
“These caregivers are crucial, we want to make sure that children are not only learning in proper classrooms but are also being guided by well-trained, compassionate professionals, she said.
In addition to the classroom block, a separate toilet facility has been constructed to promote hygiene and sanitation.
Mikate ECD: Early Childhood Development Centres lay the foundation for lifelong learning, health and success
Building bright futures starts early