Bana Pele

Bana Pele means “children first” in Sesotho. Children sit at the heart of the early childhood development work the Department of Basic Education is doing to meet the 2030 goal of universal access to ECD, quality early learning and safety. The Bana Pele ECD Registration Drive is a vital step towards achieving these goals.

That is why the Department of Basic Education is leading a transformation in how Early Childhood Development programmes are supported across South Africa. Through the adoption of innovative digital solutions, the Department has streamlined the service delivery, reducing administrative burdens, and making it easier for ECD programmes to access the tools and support they need to thrive.

One of the key innovations introduced was the Early Childhood Administration and Reporting System (eCares), a digital platform developed to streamline core ECD business processes. The system was designed to make government support more efficient, accessible, and data driven, enabling broader participation in early childhood development across the country.

Sesame Workshop South Africa and The Department of Basic Education Partner to Drive Early Learning Awareness

As we celebrate 25 years of helping children grow smarter, stronger, and kinder, we’re proud to announce a new partnership with the Department of Basic Education.

Together, we’re joining forces through the Bana Pele initiative aimed at raising awareness around registration, quality early learning, and stimulation. Minister of Basic Education, Ms. Siviwe Gwarube, will play an active role in the campaign, co-hosting key events including play-based community activations, registration clinics, and media engagements across TV and radio.

What is the Mass Registration?

7 Steps to Bronze Registration

How to get in touch?

  1. Dial our free USSD number *134*7776# and we will call you back (010 476 1004) within 7 days to complete your application
  2. WhatsApp us on 087 725 2059 and we will call you back from 010 476 1004 within 7 days to complete your application.
  3. Visit ECD Info Hub or the DBE website for all registration information and documentation, including Form 30.
  4. Email us at banapele@dbe.gov.za for all general inquiries.

Important Information

  • Registration is free. Do not pay any person/organization charging for registration support. If you find out about a scam, please notify us on banapele@dbe.gov.za.
  • Registration is only for existing ECD centres, not for people/practitioners looking to open a centre.
  • As part of the registration drive, we do not offer any ECD learnerships or training.