By Sbongile Sokela
In the heart of KwaThema lies a beacon of hope and transformation, the KwaThema Stimulation Centre. Originally founded in 1998 by Merriam Ndebele, the Centre was born out of a mother’s love and lived experience. Merriam, who had a child with a disability, recognized a painful gap in society. There were no early childhood development (ECD) centers catering to children with disabilities at the time. What began as a deeply personal mission has since evolved into a thriving, inclusive hub for education, healthcare, and community empowerment.
“She started at a time when children with disabilities were often hidden,” says Mxolisi Nkutha, a key member of the Centre’s leadership. “A lot of families were afraid or ashamed, and she began by going around the community asking, ‘Where are the children?’ That’s how this journey began.”
Today, the Centre supports over 60 children with severe and profound intellectual and physical disabilities. It is more than just an ECD facility. It is a comprehensive support system. In 2024, the Centre was rebranded to reflect its expanded role in the community, encompassing not only early childhood care but also skills development and training.
“We’re accredited with ETDP SETA for NQF Levels 4 and 5 in Early Childhood Development and Inclusive Education,” says Nkutha. “This allows us to provide quality, recognized training to both caregivers and practitioners.”
In addition to its core educational mission, the Centre is also breaking new ground in digital literacy. It offers computer training, including an introduction to Microsoft 365, and will be launching coding and robotics programs this year through strategic partnerships.
“Our goal is to prepare our learners and community members for the future. Technology must be accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities,” Nkutha explains.
Healthcare is another critical component of the Centre’s holistic approach. The facility includes an on-site clinic with a nurse, part-time doctor, occupational therapist, and speech therapist. Starting in July, the clinic will expand its services to children from outside the Centre, giving the wider community access to primary healthcare and occupational therapy.
But the Centre’s impact doesn’t stop there. One of its most powerful initiatives has been the training of local ECD practitioners.
“We’ve noticed that many people working in early childhood development around the community don’t have formal qualifications,” Nkutha says. “So we stepped in. Last year, we graduated 60 practitioners, and this year another 30. All trained and accredited at NQF Level 4.”
This effort not only enhances the quality of education in the region but also uplifts local livelihoods, equipping residents with skills that can open new doors professionally.
The KwaThema Stimulation Centre stands as a testament to what’s possible when compassion meets action. What began with one mother’s vision is now a lifeline for dozens of families and a driving force for inclusive development in the community.
“We’re not just educating and caring for children,” says Nkutha. “We’re changing mindsets, creating access, and building a future where no child is left behind.”
