Investment in early childhood education and development is undoubtedly the cornerstone of progress.
As Nelson Mandela once said, "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." Recognising this, the Oando Foundation, an independent charity established to support the Nigerian government in achieving its Universal Basic Education (UBE) goal, has continued to invest in the development of children through its Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) initiative.
Having successfully launched eleven ECCD centers across the country, the Foundation, in partnership with Plateau SUBEB, recently transformed ten ECCD centers in Plateau State, providing dynamic and engaging learning spaces for young children, for vibrant educational experiences.
Here are four key aspects of this impactful initiative:
- Focus on Early Childhood Development: The ECCD initiative by Oando Foundation focuses on upgrading and, where necessary, establishing Early Childhood Care and Development Centers in its adopted schools. These centers cater to the needs of children aged five years and below, aiming to develop their cognitive abilities through an approved curriculum. This curriculum includes Physical Development, Affective/Psychosocial Development, Cognitive Development, Food and Nutrition, Health, Water and Environmental Sanitation, Safety Measures, and Child Protection. Teachers receive training on the ECCD curriculum, participatory, and collaborative teaching methods.
- Upgrade of Ten ECCD Centers: As part of the intervention in Plateau, Oando Foundation revitalised ten classrooms spread across various public schools in the state. These classrooms have been transformed into fully functional learning spaces equipped with age-appropriate educational materials and resources. This revitalisation effort enhances the learning experience and provides a conducive environment for young learners to thrive.
- Teacher Capacity Building: Recognising the pivotal role of educators, the ECCD intervention includes teacher training sessions focused on early childhood pedagogy and effective teaching strategies. By enhancing teachers' skills and knowledge, the program ensures quality early childhood education delivery and promotes professional development. In the recently concluded intervention in Plateau, the teacher capacity building component featured a two-day teacher training workshop comprising four comprehensive modules aimed at enhancing teaching effectiveness and student engagement. Furthermore, the training incorporated the use of audiovisual aids, providing teachers with modern teaching tools to better engage their students and enhance their learning experiences.
- Commitment to Sustainable Development: The ECCD intervention is part of the Foundation’s broader LEARNOVATE strategy that prioritises innovation and investments in foundational learning, creating better life opportunities for children and youth through equitable, quality, and climate-sensitive education. It also aligns with broader goals of sustainable development, specifically SDG 4.2.1 on equitable access to quality early childhood development and learning opportunities. By investing in early childhood education, the initiative supports long-term educational outcomes and socio-economic growth.
Oando Foundation continues to demonstrate its commitment to improving educational opportunities and outcomes for children across Nigeria, as the nation’s ability to capitalise on the prosperity embedded in its people requires focused investments in human capital, starting at the early years as a critical foundation. Through strategic partnerships and innovative approaches, the Foundation aims to create a lasting impact on the educational landscape, empowering young learners and paving the way for a brighter future.
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