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A fresh start for Khulani Pre-School in Thaba Nchu

Ribbon cutting moment at Khulani Pre School. Photo: Fabienne Stöckli /ForAfrika

Khulani Pre-School in Thaba Nchu, Free State Province, South Africa, underwent a much-needed makeover to revamp the facility to better meet the needs of its learners. On Friday, 20 February, a handover ceremony marked the official completion of the school’s rehabilitation, bringing together the ForAfrika team, community members, parents, and local leaders to celebrate a renewed learning space for young children.

The ceremony brought together representatives including Ward 42 Councillor, Mr Mothupi, Barolong Boo Seleka’s Princess Omphile Moroka, Selosesha SAPS (South African Police Service), Reverend Katiso Nkhoesa, Ms Palesa Diboke from the Free State Department of Education, Lydia Motaung from the South African Congress for Early Childhood Development among other guests.

Inauguration ceremony of the newly rehabilitated Khulani Pre-School, marking a renewed space for early childhood learning. Photo: Craig Kudita /ForAfrika

Adel Terblanche, Community Development Officer of ForAfrika and Ms Palesa Diboke from the Free State Department of Education during the Inauguration ceremony of the newly rehabilitated Khulani Pre-School. Photo: Craig Kudita /ForAfrika

Established in 2010, Khulani Pre-School supports children from two to five years old, offering a critical foundation for early learning in the Thaba Nchu community. The residents face multiple vulnerabilities, including socio-economic challenges and safety concerns, which directly affect young children’s access to quality early childhood development (ECD) services.

Over the past three years, Khulani’s journey has intertwined with ForAfrika’s. Khulani ECD was identified as a priority centre in the region, particularly in need of school feeding assistance to sustain attendance and learning. In parallel, support from Woolworths helped establish a school garden, which has become a vital component of the centre’s feeding programme and long-term sustainability.

The rehabilitation came at a critical time. Previously, makeshift structures disrupted learning during the rainy season due to leaking roofs and children struggled to stay warm as colder weather set in. With the makeover, two concrete classrooms provide a safe and stable learning environment, complemented by a fully equipped kitchen and appropriate sanitation facilities. These improvements create the conditions children need to learn, grow, and thrive during their formative years.

Light now fills a newly rehabilitated classroom at Khulani Pre-School. With proper ventilation, safe roofing, and improved lighting, children can learn in a space that protects their well-being and nurtures their potential. Photo: Craig Kudita/ForAfrika

Interior of a classroom at Khulani Pre-School before rehabilitation. The steel structure allowed rain to enter, and extreme heat or cold often made learning impossible. With little natural light and poor ventilation, children were exposed to unhealthy conditions and a heightened risk of illness. Photo: Rebecca Navega/ForAfrika

With a clean floor, open windows, and proper ventilation, the new kitchen creates a healthier space where nutritious meals can be prepared for children each day. Photo: Craig Kudita/ForAfrika

The former kitchen faced leaks, poor ventilation, and security risks, forcing staff to remove cooking equipment and food supplies daily to prevent theft. Photo: Rebecca Navega/ForAfrika

Another highlight of the day was the donation of children’s books in Seshuto and IsiTwanda ( local languages). “This is fundamental in supporting early literacy and nurturing a sense of cultural identity among learners,” shared Adel Terblanche, a Community Development Officer from ForAfrika.

For the educators who have walked this journey with the community, the transformation is deeply emotional.

“I am so happy and full of emotion,” said Bongiwe Masakala, a director at the school. “Since ForAfrika began supporting us, so much has changed for this centre. The savings from the school feeding programme have already helped us improve the quality of education we provide. With this makeover, we are in another level. Speaking about it brings tears to my eyes. Seeing the children, parents and community come together gives me hope that the education we offer here will only continue to grow stronger.”

“I am so happy and full of emotion.”

- Bongiwe Masakala

Before rehabilitation, Khulani Pre-School stood as a fragile structure of makeshift materials, vulnerable to heat and cold. Even so, the commitment of staff ensured that children were met each day with care, dignity, and hope. Photo: Rebecca Navega/ForAfrika

A new chapter for Khulani Pre-School. With solid floors, secure doors, proper windows, and a reliable roof, children now step into a space designed for learning, safety, and renewed hope. Photo: Craig Kudita / ForAfrika

Through partnerships, community leadership, and sustained investment in early childhood development, Khulani Pre-School is now better equipped to give children in Thaba Nchu a safer, warmer, and more dignified start to life.

Across borders, one mission. The ForAfrika South Africa team and ForAfrika Switzerland affiliate came together at the inauguration of Khulani Pre-School to celebrate renewed hope for children and their learning journey. Photo: Craig Kudita/ ForAfrika

Soft mats, storybooks, and simple toys now fill the renewed nap area, offering children a moment of rest, comfort, and joy in a space designed for them to thrive. Photo: Craig Kudita/ForAfrika

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