Round Robin Children’s Literature Day: Exploring AI and Storytelling in the Foundation Phase
A Day of Expert Inspiration
The round robin format allowed students to meet with a diverse group of guest speakers who shared their expertise in engaging and accessible ways. Prof Darshana Morar-Leather and her team from the Faculty of Veterinary Sciences spoke about the risks posed by ticks, how to identify bites, and what steps to take if bitten. From the world of finance, Mr Ruan Willemse and Mr Tanner Fox from Concept Lynnwood, Sanlam introduced students to the basics of budgeting, saving, and making smart financial choices. Legal expertise was provided by Mr Jarred West from Spoor & Fisher Attorneys, who highlighted the harmful effects of counterfeit goods, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry where fake cough syrup is sometimes sold in informal shops.
Cultural and educational perspectives also featured prominently. Dr Shine Aung from the Department of Humanities Education spoke about respect, inclusion, and appreciation for all cultures and identities, while Dr Nadia Swanepoel addressed children’s fears about mathematics and demonstrated how stories can help build confidence through play. Dr Kayla Willemse inspired students with examples of how coding and robotics can be introduced in early learning, and Dr Joyce West highlighted the value of hands-on activities such as sports, knitting, crafting, and simple science experiments in supporting children’s holistic development.
Postgraduate students added their voices to the day, enriching the discussion with themes directly connected to children’s everyday experiences. Mrs Jean-Marie Koch explored traditional and cultural arts through music, dance, visual arts, and storytelling. Mrs Elsamarie Kersop offered practical insights into kitchen safety when cooking and baking, while Mrs Mariska Ellis shared lessons on pet care and the responsibilities that come with owning animals. The day was rounded off with a themed table on germination and vegetable gardening, created by Prof Mia Abrie from the Department of Science, Mathematics and Technology Education, which gave students a playful introduction to environmental awareness and sustainability.
Linking to the Sustainable Development Goals
What made this day truly meaningful was how closely it aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Discussions on health and well-being, respect for diversity, financial literacy, environmental responsibility, and inclusive education highlighted how children’s literature can be a powerful tool for achieving goals such as Quality Education, Good Health and Well-Being, Reduced Inequalities, and Responsible Consumption and Production. By weaving these global priorities into the training of future teachers, the University of Pretoria not only strengthens its role as a leader in education innovation but also positions South Africa at the forefront of preparing socially conscious, future-ready educators.
Capturing the Day
A heartfelt thank you goes to Kayla from EGHTsocials, who captured the energy, creativity, and collaboration of the event through her lens, ensuring the day will be remembered and shared.
Shaping the Future of Education
The Round Robin Children’s Literature Day was more than just an academic activity. It was a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and critical engagement with both technology and society. By combining artificial intelligence, storytelling, and expert knowledge, students were not only inspired to write stories that matter but were also encouraged to see themselves as future teachers and change-makers. The University of Pretoria remains proud to lead in shaping a new generation of educators who will write the future of South Africa, and the world - one story at a time.
