Message by Dr. Mmantsetsa Marope
Chairperson of the Governing Board of IECD/UNESCO Category 2 Institute
Celebrating United Nations Day: A Commitment to Early Childhood Development
On this United Nations Day, we reflect on the vital importance of nurturing our youngest generation through Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE). From birth to age eight, children undergo essential physical, emotional, cognitive, and social development that lays the foundation for their future.
The United Nations recognizes this critical stage in its Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 4: Quality Education. We emphasize SDG 4.2, which aims to ensure that by 2030, all girls and boys have access to quality early childhood development, care, and pre-primary education, preparing them for primary education. By prioritizing ECCE, we not only invest in individual children, but also in the well-being of our communities, fostering equity, strengthening families, and building resilient societies that contribute to global prosperity.
The establishment of the Institute for Early Childhood Development (IECD) as a UNESCO Category 2 Institute in Seychelles represents a significant opportunity to enhance our efforts. By aligning with UNESCO’s strategic priorities for early childhood care and education, the IECD can play a critical role in implementing effective programs and practices, not just within Seychelles, but for UNESCO Member States worldwide.
To fully leverage the transformative potential of ECCE, we urge our government and all relevant stakeholders to provide comprehensive financial support for the IECD. This support is essential to enhance the Institute’s capacity to fulfill its responsibilities and uphold its esteemed status under UNESCO. Investment should cover infrastructure development, capacity building for staff, adequate remuneration, resources, technical expertise, scientific research, staff educational exchanges, and technological advancements. Such support will facilitate the replication of these vital programs and competencies globally.
By backing ECCE financially, we can create a model that empowers our youngest generation and establishes a robust foundation for lifelong learning. This is an opportunity for Seychelles to lead by example, demonstrating our commitment to building equitable and resilient communities both locally and across the globe.
Let us unite in advocating for policies and practices that promote and enhance early childhood development. Together, we can ensure that every child, irrespective of their background, has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Join us in celebrating our youngest generation today and every day. They are our future leaders, thinkers, and innovators. Their dreams and aspirations are the seeds of tomorrow, and it is our collective responsibility to nurture them.
Together, let the motto ‘A Winning Start for All’ resonate in everything we do for the holistic development of young children. By championing Early Childhood Care and Education, we affirm our commitment to nurturing the next generation and ensuring that every child in Seychelles and the World has the opportunity to flourish.
