South Africa’s early learning sector is set for a major shift as the Department of Basic Education launches the Education Outcomes Fund.
The fund is a R496 million investment designed to expand access to quality Early Childhood Development programmes.
Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube launched the initiative on 1 December 2025 at the Protea Hotel, Midrand, Gauteng.
MASSIVE PUSH FOR EARLY LEARNING VIA THE EDUCATION OUTCOMES FUND
The Education Outcomes Fund will accelerate access to Early Childhood Care and Education by directing resources to programmes that show measurable results.
The department aims to strengthen education providers, improve facilities and boost learning outcomes for children aged 0 to 5 years.
Moreover, the fund will mobilise partnerships across public, private and philanthropic sectors to scale high-impact early learning initiatives.
WHAT WILL THE EDUCATION OUTCOME FUND DELIVER
The fund will allow 115 000 children to enter quality early learning programmes.
It will also support 2 000 Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres with tools to improve teaching and learning environments.
Additionally, a three-year delivery window will ensure clear targets and stronger accountability.
These commitments reflect the shift toward outcomes-based financing, which ties investment to real progress in early learning readiness.
WHY DOES IT MATTER?
Research consistently shows that quality early learning improves school readiness and long-term economic outcomes.
Therefore, the Education Outcomes Fund could help close the early learning gaps that often appear long before Grade 1.
EDUCATION OUTCOMES FUND: A MOVE TOWARD ACCOUNTABILITY?
The Democratic Alliance has welcomed the outcomes-based approach, noting that it aligns with long-standing calls for evidence-driven spending in the ECD sector.
The party says it will monitor implementation to ensure the R496 million commitment delivers its promised results.
Consequently, the fund’s success may set a new standard for accountability and delivery within basic education.
