Delta Environmental Centre (DEC) has matured into a leading institution in the field of environmental education, training and consultation and is an accredited training provider with the Education, Training and Development Practice – Sector Education and Training Authority (ETDP-SETA), and with the University of the North West (UNW). The training of educators and government officials has become a key focus for DEC and we believe that by offering these accredited Short Courses, the Centre will be in a better position to sustain its activities.
The curriculum implementation process in South Africa has been reviewed recently and many challenges have emerged. The urgent need for educator training and up-skilling has been identified. DEC is well-placed to play a vital role in this regard. South Africa’s National Curriculum Statement (NCS) has a very progressive approach with the underlying principle that all learners need to be made aware of the relationship between “human rights, social justice, a healthy environment and inclusivity.” A great challenge lies ahead for DEC to realize this goal.
DEC finds itself in a unique situation because it is an independent organisation and does not have a guaranteed funding base. It is, therefore, critical that viable partnerships are formed with a wide spectrum of organizations from government through to the private sector. Creative opportunities are being sought.