In South Africa, the early childhood development sector, predominantly led by women, extends beyond childcare to encompass teaching, nurturing, and community support. These women establish creches, fostering sustainable businesses and creating job opportunities within their communities. Operating under an entrepreneurship model, the sector, previously managed by the Department of Social Development and now under the Department of Basic Education, often reflects informal economic practices. Despite their vital roles, practitioners in this sector, like many women in the informal economy, face long hours and financial challenges, aligning with concerns of economic exploitation highlighted in a World Bank report on women in the African informal sector.
South Africa: women play a key role in early childhood learning and care – but they need help accessing university
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