In South Africa, where diverse populations coexist, the challenge of social inclusion remains especially pressing. Sesame Workshop International South Africa, through its groundbreaking children’s television programme Takalani Sesame, is among the leading initiatives addressing this issue head-on.

The programme has consistently promoted diversity and inclusion, including representation for visual impairment, in its content for over two decades. 

This representation aims to foster a welcoming environment where children, through workshops and affirmations, learn that everyone is welcome on Takalani Sesame – and that everyone is special in their own way.

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“We have included numerous casts in our previous television shows of Takalani Sesame, and we continue to do that. We have been doing that for the past years, since the early 2000s,” said Payne, deputy managing director and senior director for education and programs at Sesame Workshop International South Africa.

The workshop’s commitment extends far beyond the television screen. According to Payne, they leverage their educational content through community engagement programmes, collaborating with teachers, parents, social workers, and government officials.

The video content created is integrated into early childhood development classrooms on tablets, followed by structured discussions and activities to reinforce lessons about acceptance, respect, and empathy. 

Takalani Sesame will continue to use its muppets to have tough talks about new, developing issues as it marks its 25th anniversary. Photo: Takalani Sesame

The content is rigorously shaped by an extensive research process, including formative testing with families from diverse backgrounds to ensure its relevance and impact across South Africa.

Looking ahead, as Takalani Sesame celebrates its 25th anniversary, Payne notes the workshop plans to continue using its muppets to have difficult conversations around new, emerging challenges such as artificial intelligence, online safety, and climate change.

Reinforcing core values

For parents and caregivers, the advice is simple but powerful: Coviewing the show with children offers an opportunity for a conversation about the on-screen lessons, reinforcing the core values of kindness and respect in everyday life.

“From a very young age, make your child aware of diversity, because they are aware of that, and they do see differences. 

“Have a conversation around it, and it’s really just going back to the core of respect, empathy, kindness, and just being a good human being,” said Payne.

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OFM News/Refilwe Bekane cvs