The USAID-supported multi-media educational programme for children called TAKALANI SESAME was launched on July 31, 2000. Rave Reviews are arriving at the production office and at USAID from enthusiastic viewers. Here are a few extracts:

• Zuzu received this enchanting message, written by a fan's sister in Malamulele (Pietersburg):

  "Hi! How are you, girl? How is life? You are my favourite character, because you are always giving yourself leading roles. Are you really pink? You are a busy little girl. How old are you?" [ZUZU says "I'm 6 years old."]

• A 31-year-old mother of three from Pampierstad (Kimberley) working with preschool children wrote to say that TAKALANI SESAME provides important education for both young and old. She added,

  "Children learn through playing; I would like you to send me some information about young children, especially [regarding] music and movement."

• The following message arrived from a young Vendan girl living in Katlehong:

  "I love Takalani Sesame. It is the most educational programme…I would like to thank the people who came up with the name, "Takalani" ["be happy"], because it is my language. Thank you for bringing this educational experience on the TV…I even feel it in my blood. I like all the characters, but the one I find most funny is Dimpho. She knows how to make children interested in the show."

Launches of the radio version of TAKALANI SESAME have recently taken place across the country so even more children can benefit from this widely acclaimed educational opportunity. Only 1 in 9 children nationwide has access to pre-school learning. Takalani Sesame on radio has been specifically produced to help fill this gap. Each programme is a fun-filled, interactive learning experience for pre-school children that makes the educational material come alive with music, drama and comedy.

TAKALANI SESAME is brought to the children of South Africa through a partnership USAID is pleased to have with the South African Department of Education, SABC Education, South African Airways, and Sanlam. It is a co-production of Kwasukasukela, Sesame Workshop and Vuleka Productions.

---

Home | USAID Washington | U.S Embassy Pretoria | Site Index | Contact Us | Security and Privacy Statement