Can we speak of an issue of equity in early childhood development in Rwanda? I don't even think that's a valid question since 90% of children from 3 to 6 years of age cannot access any form of early learning opportunities. And those that do are usually in privately operated pre- schools and these services lack an overarching application of standards, curricula, learning materials (UNICEF ECD Strategic Plan. June 2015).
But "good seasons start with good beginnings" according to Sparky Anderson and in Rwanda, a new season for early childhood development has begun with 12 ECD and Family model centers built in selected communities in 12 districts. There are even plans to expand with an additional 18 centers to make it one center for each of Rwanda's 30 districts.
Rwanda's government recently reconfirmed its commitment by setting the target to provide quality community- based and family- based services for every young child and family in Rwanda by the end of 2017 (UNICEF ECDF Programme Summary. 2015).
But "good seasons start with good beginnings" according to Sparky Anderson and in Rwanda, a new season for early childhood development has begun with 12 ECD and Family model centers built in selected communities in 12 districts. There are even plans to expand with an additional 18 centers to make it one center for each of Rwanda's 30 districts.
Rwanda's government recently reconfirmed its commitment by setting the target to provide quality community- based and family- based services for every young child and family in Rwanda by the end of 2017 (UNICEF ECDF Programme Summary. 2015).
Sounds like help is on the way. I thank you for your candid conversation from such personal place for you. I hope that you allow all that you learn, acquire and read go and build up that community or help someone else get the same or even greater knowledge of how to make you and your community stronger. I enjoy your blog and hope that much needed resources come through for those in Rwanda.
ReplyDeleteOh Thank you so much Shining for your kind message. Yes for us it is a real moment of hope. I am ready to help in any way i can.
DeleteAll the best.
Marlene,
ReplyDeleteThank you for the post. Very informative. You are so passionate about Rwanda and all that it stands for. Sounds like things are coming together for Rwanda and the children that they serve. It is good to hear that they are going to expand the early childhood centers in each of their 30 districts. Like Shining Star, I pray that Rwanda gets everything that they are entitled to and get the help and assistance that they may need in order for their children to be and do better in life.
Dionna,
DeleteIt is really kind of you to think and pray for my country. What is being done is really encouraging.
All the best Dionna.
Marlene,
ReplyDeleteThank you for that insight. I am so happy to here that more young children will have access to an education. I to hope that Rwanda gets everything that they are entitled to and get the assistance they need to help support young children.
Dear Jillian,
DeleteI really hope that in few years everything should be in order. The main thing is that the policy makers in my country have this matter in their priorities.
Thank you and all the best.