The Ntataise Network Annual Conference provides the opportunity for networking, sharing, peer-learning and collaboration between Ntataise Network members, funders and other key ECD stakeholders. The 38^th Ntataise Network Conference took place on 20^th-22^nd August 2018 and involved some 120 Ntataise Network members and guests, all of whom share Ntataise’s vision of increasing access to quality ECD programmes. The conference comprised a series of presentations, discussions and interactive activities covering ECD topics ranging from policy and research updates to more practice-focused sessions which explored innovative methodologies, with an emphasis on digital integration.

Day 1 of the Conference was opened by Kalim Rajab who presented an inspirational address on the subject of resilience. Kalim is a Writer, Social Justice Commentator and Trustee of the Helen Suzman Foundation and the Press Council of South Africa. In Kalim’s address he said: ‘’real change often lies under the ground rather than above it. But those who craft it and shape it, and those who are beneficiaries of it, are silently aware of its power. I sincerely thank you for the real change you make, for thanklessly struggling and never giving in’’.

As part of the opening of the conference, Ntataise’s Founder Jane Evans and Ntataise Director Puleng Motsoeneng shared Ntataise’s story of resilience during its 38 years of existence. The presentation highlighted the significant growth, reach and impact of the Ntataise Network in some of South Africa’s most marginalised communities.

The opening address was followed by a series of presentations by guest speakers who shared valuable messages with delegates:.

• Tracey Henry, CEO of Tshikululu Social Investments, presented some of the important considerations for social investment partnerships such as stakeholder engagement, monitoring impact, partnerships with government and alternative funding models.
• Ivy Rapoo, Acting Director of ECD and Partial Care at the Department of Social Development, shared information and progress to date on the National Integrated ECD Policy, services and programmes.
• Dr Hasina Ebrahim, Professor and UNESCO Co-Chair in Early Childhood Education, Care and Development at UNISA, spoke on the development of quality Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) professionals in South Africa.
• Andre Viviers, Education Specialist for ECD at UNICEF, provided an honest reflection on some of the realities of the sector and what needs to change, highlighting the need for the sector to work more innovatively and collaboratively.

The subsequent day explored how digital platforms can be used by the Ntataise Network for professional and personal development, with the vision of extending access to quality ECD in creative and innovative ways. This session was led by guest speakers who delivered presentations and interactive gatherings…

• Oliver Dick, Blended Learning Lead from Spark Schools, spoke on personalised learning and the use of Google platforms;
• Tessa Welch, Teacher Education Programme Specialist from Saide, led a session on the African Storybook;
• Phakamile Khumalo, Facilitator from Web Rangers,<