About Us – VPUU V-NET

Basics

What is V-NET?

V-NET is a community wireless network operated by VPUU NPC – Violence Prevention Through Urban Upgrading – in close cooperation with local communities. We offer several ways to connect, including Universal Basic Internet access, paid blazing fast options, and free access to educational content and services.

We work together to expand the network by installing hotspots at ECDs and other important community sites.

We invite you get involved – just contact us at the email or phone number below.

Early Childhood Development

Why are we connecting ECDs?

Why ECD?

The first 1000 days are the most crucial in a child’s life, as they set the foundation for proper health, growth and neurobiological development [UNICEF]. Intervening at this stage is imperative, as it can change the course of a child’s life, shape their development, and protect against risk factors [Doyle et al. 2009]. Early Childhood Development [ECD] has been identified as one of the most effective violence prevention strategies [WHO, 1990].

The healthy development of children provides a strong foundation for healthy and competent adulthood, responsible citizenship, economic productivity, strong communities, and a sustainable society.

What does VPUU do?

VPUU focuses on the most vulnerable children living in South Africa’s informal settlements. We embrace a transdisciplinary approach. Our ECD model acknowledges that collaboration between many disciplines is imperative to providing services and resources essential to adequate child development.

Our ECD strategy is aligned with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child [Article 24/1989], ratified by the South African Constitution in 1996 and the Children’s Act of 2005, which promotes comprehensive healthcare for children, mothers and caregivers and access to safe water, sanitation, nutrition, healthy environmental conditions and health information.

Collaboration and partnerships between caregivers, educators, communities and the public sector are pivotal to the sustainability of programmatic and infrastructural interventions that uphold children’s rights and promote their development.