The South Africa Department of Basic Education Launch the New registration drive for ECD programmes,This means South African Governments will support ECD Registration with User friendly Online Registration.
The government wants every young child in South Africa to have access to a quality ECD programme, and every programme to provide three things: Quality learning and development opportunities; a safe and nurturing environment; and good nutrition. Registration is the first step in making this possible.
The goals of the Bana Pele ECD registration drive are therefore to pull every ECD programme into the regulatory net, and to support ECD programmes in all communities to comply with legal requirements, by recognising the different contexts in which they operate.
What Is the Bana Pele ECD Registration Drive?
The Bana Pele ECD Registration Drive is a registration and outreach campaign designed to:
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Assist ECD centres with official registration processes
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Help caregivers understand compliance requirements
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Improve access to government or institutional support
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Promote safe and quality early learning environments
By simplifying registration procedures and providing guidance, the drive ensures more centres operate legally and meet early education standards.
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The new registration process will comprise three stages through which every ECD programme will move:
- APPLY: The ECD programme submits an application through an online form or WhatsApp Bot and receives an initial Bronze certificate.
- COMPLY: The ECD programme submits remaining documentation and receives site visits to check that they comply with the norms and standards.
- COMPLETE: The ECD programme receives a silver or gold certificate.
NGOs have a critical role to play in the Bana Pele ECD Registration Drive. They often have strong relationships with ECD programmes, and some have capacity and resources to be able to support the registration process.
Local NGOs will therefore be invited to support the registration drive by assisting ECD programmes with applications (at the APPLY stage) and site compliance (at the COMPLY stage).
To apply click here: https://user-registration.dbecares.gov.za/
For further enquiries contact: Banapele@dbe.gov.za
(FAQs)
What is the Bana Pele ECD Registration Drive?
A programme that helps early childhood centres complete official registration.
Who should apply?
ECD centre owners, childcare providers, and community programmes.
Is registration mandatory?
Yes, in many regions registration is required for legal operation.
Does registration cost money?
Fees depend on local regulations.
Can informal centres apply?
Yes, the drive supports informal providers.
What documents are required?
ID, facility details, safety compliance, and application forms.
Is training provided?
Some programmes offer guidance or training resources.
How long does approval take?
Processing time varies by region.
Can parents register children through this drive?
Parents can use registered centres to enroll children.
What age group does ECD cover?
Typically birth to 5 years.
Does registration guarantee funding?
No, but it may make centres eligible.
Can home-based centres apply?
Yes, if they meet requirements.
Is inspection required?
Many centres must pass health and safety checks.
Can I apply online?
Availability depends on local systems.
What happens if a centre is not registered?
It may not operate legally or access support.
Are qualifications required for staff?
Some regions require basic training or certification.
Can rural centres participate?
Yes, outreach programmes often target rural areas.
Is there an age limit for operators?
No specific limit, but legal adult status is required.
Do centres need learning materials?
Yes, educational resources are typically required.
Can NGOs run ECD centres?
Yes, if registered and compliant.
What is the main goal of the drive?
To increase access to safe, quality early childhood education.
Where can I get help with forms?
Registration support teams or local offices usually assist applicants.













