Historic Moment for Early Childhood Development in Lesotho
UNICEF Lesotho
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The Ministry of Education and Training, in collaboration with UNICEF Lesotho, NECDOL, and the World Food Programme (WFP), today launched Lesotho’s first-ever Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE) Conference. Under the theme “Beyond Brick and Mortar: Investing in Our Most Valuable Asset—Building Blocks for the Future”, this pioneering event has brought together governments, development partners, private sector leaders, funding agencies, and civil society organizations, all committed to advancing Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE) across Southern Africa.
Through shared research, best practices, and strategic discussions, stakeholders aim to:
?In SADC member states, financing for ECDE ranges from less than 1% to 5% of the education budget for children aged three to five. However, the SADC region has shown its commitment to advancing ECDE by signing international agreements such as the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Sustainable Development Goals, and the November 2022 Tashkent Declaration. These commitments have led to the establishment of policies, legislation, standards, and guidelines on early childhood development for children aged 0-8 across the region.
Delivering her remarks, Her Majesty Queen 'Masenate Mohato Seeiso underscored the urgent need to address limited access to quality early learning for many children. She urged stakeholders to explore sustainable financing models for ECDE and recognize the private sector as a vital partner, bringing technical expertise and resources. Her Majesty emphasized the importance of integrating traditional practices within modern education frameworks, empowering parents as active participants in their children’s lives, and advocating for policies that eliminate educational barriers. She called for shared responsibility in building a brighter future for every child.
Honorable Minister of Education, Dr. Ntoi Rapapa, delivered a heartfelt plea to the audience:
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“As we gather here to discuss how we can collectively advance ECDE, I make a heartfelt plea to each of you. We must do more. We must invest in ECDE—not only in financial terms but also through our policies, partnerships, and collective will. Early childhood education is not merely a cost; it is an investment in the future of our nation. It is a pathway to greater educational outcomes, improved health, and reduced inequality. If we do not invest in the early years, we risk perpetuating cycles of poverty, stunted development, and limited opportunities for our children.”
Honorable Limpho Tau, Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, speaking on behalf of the Right Hon. Prime Minister, emphasized that the true strength of Lesotho lies not only in infrastructure but in the potential of its youngest citizens. “By prioritizing children’s early, formative years, Lesotho is investing in future leaders, thinkers, and innovators.” He noted.
Deepak Bhaskaran, UNICEF Lesotho Representative, echoed this call to action, underscoring the importance of a collective commitment to building a brighter future for children.
“Let’s join forces—government, businesses, educators, researchers, and parents—to lay the groundwork for a strong future. Today’s children are tomorrow’s leaders, innovators, and change-makers. By investing in their early years, we are securing a brighter, more prosperous future for all of us.”
The ECDE Conference marks a significant step forward for children’s futures in the region, with a focus on technology, education, and data-driven solutions to improve early childhood outcomes. This collaborative commitment will pave the way for enduring progress and a brighter future for Southern Africa's youngest citizens.
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4 个月Amazing!!!!!!????