UNESCO emphasizes the importance of early childhood care and education (ECCE) as a crucial window of opportunity for children’s brain development. It goes beyond preparing them for primary school by laying the foundation for emotional well-being and lifelong learning. Investing in ECCE promotes holistic development, gender equality, and social cohesion, making it one of the best investments a country can make.
Sustainable Development Goal 4 Target 4.2 aims to ensure that all girls and boys have access to quality early childhood development, care, and pre-primary education by 2030. The Second World Congress of Education International resolution on ECCE highlights the significance of early childhood education in promoting equal opportunities, reducing the need for intervention, and leading to successful education later on.
EI recommends that early childhood education should be a public service integrated into the education system and managed by the Ministry of Education. It stresses the importance of adequate resources to provide high-quality early childhood education accessible to all. TT, as a member of the United Nations, should consider the guidelines and reports generated by globally respected organizations like UNESCO.
TTUTA, a member of EI, supports the principles outlined in the 1998 resolution and advocates for comprehensive policies and sustainable investments in ECCE. Current issues with ECCE teachers’ contractual arrangements, including delayed salary payments and lack of benefits, have raised concerns. The association calls for improvements and fair treatment for these essential educators.
UNESCO’s research suggests that legal provisions for compulsory pre-primary education can enhance children’s developmental outcomes. Although the TT Government has taken steps to amend the Education Act to include ECCE students, the lack of stability in this sector raises concerns. TTUTA condemns the mistreatment of ECCE teachers and urges the public to demand corrective action.
