UNESCO data reveals that 1 in 4 children aged 5 worldwide has never experienced pre-primary education. Despite the proven benefits of ECCE, only half of all countries offer free pre-primary education.
The World Conference on Early Childhood Care and Education aims to reaffirm children's right to quality care and education and advocate for increased investment in the early years.
ECCE is crucial for brain development and provides opportunities for lifelong success. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the ECCE crisis, leaving millions of children without essential services.
Access to ECCE has improved globally, but regional disparities remain. Teacher shortages and working conditions need attention.
Policy fragmentation, lack of public provision, weak regulations, and chronic underfunding are obstacles to quality ECCE.
Let's work together to transform ECCE systems, ensuring every child has a strong foundation for lifelong learning and development.