Deputy Minister of Basic Education, Dr Reginah Mhaule, participated at the Human Capability Initiative (HCI) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from 13 to 14 April 2025. The Deputy Minister was supported by Ms Stella Mosimege, Chief Director for Strategic Planning, Research, Evaluation and Monitoring; Ms Ncedile Mdhluli, Head of Office of the Deputy Minister; and Ms Hleki Mabunda, Director for International Relations and Multilateral Affairs.
The HCI is a global platform designed to unify international efforts and enrich global dialogue on the challenges and opportunities for developing human capabilities. Under the theme #BeyondReadiness, the HCI explored skills; the future of work; education; and technology across two days. The conference brought together over 300 speakers; including global leaders and experts from the policy, corporate, investment, and academic sectors to exchange expertise and explore strategies to optimise human capability within the rapidly changing modern world.
The Deputy Minister delivered an Opening Statement for the Session on “The Early Childhood Dialogue – Educational and Developmental Pathways for a Stronger Future”. The Session, chaired by Ms Aferdita Spahiu, Education Specialist at UNICEF, explored the critical role of Early Childhood Education (ECE) in shaping long-term societal and economic progress. Policymakers and experts shared insights, evidence and strategies to strengthen early learning programmes as a foundation for equitable development and sustainable economic growth. Dr Mhaule spoke on the importance of ECE and what it means for the overall development of a child, and preparedness for primary school and learning.
In her remarks, Dr Mhaule emphasised that, “the early years are a vital time in children’s cognitive, physical, social, ethical and emotional development. This creates an opportune moment to stimulate children’s brains to engage with the world around them through play, exploration and experimentation”. She highlighted the need to start nurturing children from their earliest stages of development. Dr Mhaule further shared reflections on the South African basic education development landscape. In closing, she addressed the significance of strengthening cross-sectoral investment and collaboration in Early Childhood Care and Education as a critical lever for human and economic development.