ECD Voice Issue 14

This issue marks the final newsletter of 2024, a time to reflect on our achievements and the lessons learned as we look toward 2025.In 2024, ZINECDA celebrated significant growth, welcoming new members and appointing a new Director and Programmes Advocacy Coordinator. Our relationships with policymakers, legislators, and the media strengthened, enhancing our advocacy for Early Childhood Development (ECD) and education.Highlights from this issue include ZINECDA’s participation in the regional Early Childhood Development and Education Conference in Lesotho, which gathered stakeholders from several Southern African countries to promote education financing and the prioritization of ECD. Additionally, a regional training on Gender/Social Inclusion and Social Accountability was held in South Africa to empower key actors in the sector.The ZINECDA secretariat and members also contributed to National Pre-Budget Stakeholder Consultations aimed at securing increased funding for education, while National Joint Monitoring Visits identified ongoing challenges in our education system, such as high learner-to-teacher ratios and inadequate classroom facilities.As the festive season approaches, let’s take a moment to care for our young learners and prepare them for the new school year.ZINECDA wishes you a joyful holiday season and looks forward to reconnecting in the new year! Read more!