UNICEF Urges Increased Funding For Early Childhood Education in Northwest
By Mustapha Salisu
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has called for increased funding for Early Childhood Care, Development and Education for children (ECCDE) in Northwest, Nigeria as an important role in shaping the future of children’s education and productivity.
Mr. Rahama Farah, Chief of UNICEF Field Office, Kano, made the call at a two-day workshop on Evidence Advocacy and Policy Dialogue for Increased Funding to the ECCDE Sub sector in Kano, Katsina and Jigawa States on Wednesday in Kano.
Mr. Farah, represented by Education Manager, Kano Field Office, Mr Michael Banda highlighted the importance of ECCDE, describing it as the foundation for long-term academic success and workforce productivity.
“Investing in early childhood education is essential for laying a strong foundation for future generations. The early years are crucial in shaping a child’s learning abilities, emotional well-being, and social skills, which are necessary for success later in life” Said Banda.
He lamented that despite the above concept, nationwide, only 63% of children are enrolled in organized early childhood education programs. “The situation is even more critical in the North West and North East regions, where participation rates are 42% and 40% respectively. In contrast, the South-South region boasts a significantly higher rate, with 90% of children attending ECCDE programs” the Education Manager asserted.
Banda further emphasized the long-term benefits of ECCDE, stating that children who participate in these programs are more likely to perform better academically, stay in school longer, and contribute positively to society as productive adults.
“Children who have access to early childhood education are more engaged and enjoy school, reducing the chances of dropout and improving overall academic performance,” he added.
Banda stressed the importance of positive parenting practices and the need for trained teachers to maintain children’s interest in learning. “Parents need the skills to support their children’s development, and educators must be equipped to promote a love for learning from an early age.”
In addition, He called on federal and state governments to prioritize early childhood education by allocating more resources to ECCDE programs. “We need policies that focus on early childhood development, ensuring that every child has access to quality education from the start,” he urged.
Speaking earlier, UNICEF Education Specialist in Abuja, Yetunde Oluwatosin, raised concerns over the alarming number of children lacking access to quality early childhood care and education in Nigeria.
She emphasized the critical importance of early childhood as a period that demands focused attention from any nation, noting that proper investment in this phase can enhance a child’s future economic prospects.
She also called for increased funding in the early childhood education sector, particularly in Northwest Nigeria, to ensure that children in the region have the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Stakeholders from Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa, who participated in the dialogue, pledged to prioritize early childhood education and allocate sufficient resources to improve the sector.
The event, organized by the Kano State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) in collaboration with the UNICEF Kano field office, was attended by SUBEB Chairmen from Jigawa, Katsina, and Kano, as well as the Commissioners of Education from these three states.
