Takalani Sesame Expands On eTV To Reach More Children With Educational Content In Local Languages

SWISA recently celebrated 25 years of Takalani Sesame, marking an incredible milestone for the brand that has advocated for Smarter, Stronger and Kinder children since the year 2000, says the NPO.

"As we celebrate our successes over the last quarter century, it's critical for us to continue to build momentum, and broaden our reach to meet children where they are, whether that be through traditional television or video-on-demand. Our aim continues to be the promotion of early education and stimulation, and to educate on health and wellbeing, providing the children of our country with the best possible start," says Dr Onyinye Nwaneri, Managing Director of Sesame Workshop South Africa.

Nwaneri says the expanded programming on eTV serves to reach even more children, with the added benefit of engaging children in their mother tongue languages, which research shows is beneficial for cognitive development, academic performance, and overall well-being. Takalani Sesame will be aired in Zulu on eTV at 14:30 and in English on eToonz at 14:45, Monday to Friday, adds the NPO.

"At eTV, we are passionate about creating safe and fun educational spaces for children across South Africa. Expanding Takalani Sesame's presence on our platforms means we can meet young viewers during their everyday viewing, whether they're tuning in for entertainment, learning, or a bit of both. We're proud to be part of a partnership that not only supports early childhood development but also promotes learning in home languages, helping every child feel seen, included, and inspired to dream big," says Samatolo Sihlezana, Marketing: Kids Content, eTV.

Tackling School Readiness and Gender Stereotypes

Takalani Sesame Seasons 15 and 16 focus on exploring themes surrounding school readiness and literacy, while challenging harmful gender stereotypes, all by learning through play, says the NPO.

In Season 15 children will learn about autonomous play regardless of gender, and about colours, shapes, affirmations, seasons, day of the week, shadows, ramps, pulleys, levers, sharing, teamwork, and the power of discovery and imagination, adds the NPO.

Season 16 of Takalani Sesame sets the foundation for a lifetime of curiosity, kindness, and joy, and focuses on education goals related to early concepts of literature (parts of a story and what makes a good story), school readiness (through songs about colours, shapes, affirmations, seasons, day of the week and more), and social emotional learning, says the NPO.

South Africa's favourite muppets, Elmo, Basma, Jad, and more, go on adventures that include story telling from renowned poet, writer, and playwright Gcina Mhlophe, playing games, and exploring everyday topics that prepare them for school and life. Sing-along moments are weaved into the show, and children are encouraged to get up and dance, while learning all about colours, shapes, teamwork, and what makes them so special, adds the NPO.

"Our programming is based on thorough research, and through these seasons, we are teaching children that they can play together no matter who they are. This sets a baseline awareness for harmful gender stereotypes and reinforces the thinking that all children can do and be anything they want: no matter if they are boy or a girl," says Dr Nwaneri. "Our beloved muppets help with these important foundational messages, with episodes involving the muppets encountering a game or scenario that challenges their idea of what is okay for boys or girls to do."

"We know that South African children start school with significant developmental delays, which is why Seasons 15 and 16 have strong elements of School Readiness. We also know children are born ready to learn, we just need to help them meet their developmental milestones so they can thrive when they enter school," says Dr Nwaneri.

"We're pleased to be extending our impact with the help of eTV, having more episodes reaching our children helps us to ensure that no child is left behind," she concludes.

For more information, visit www.sesameworkshop.org. You can also follow Sesame Workshop on Facebook, X, Instagram, or on TikTok.

*Image courtesy of contributor