EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION CONFERENCE HYBRID MEETING

30th October to 1 November 2023, 9 am -12 pm Harare Time(CAT)

Background

Zimbabwe has taken strides to ensure that there is recognition, comprehension, and appreciation of the importance of ECD at a foundational level. This has been evidenced by the inclusion of ECD A and B as compulsory levels within the Zimbabwean education system and the approval of the National Early Learning Policy which assists in the provision of quality and inclusive ECD education. These strides have had an undeniable impact on the recognition of ECD within Zimbabwe. According to the Zimbabwe Early Learning Assessment (ZELA) report of 2021, the enrolment rate in Early Childhood Education (ECE) programs is alarmingly low. The prevalence of malnutrition is also a significant concern, with high rates of stunting and wasting observed among children under the age of 5 with approximately 23% of children in this age group, while 4% suffer from wasting. 60% of young children face multidimensional poverty, including limited education, inadequate healthcare, lack of clean water, sanitation, and poor housing. Rural areas have higher poverty rates, with an estimated two-thirds of impoverished children living outside cities. This disparity increases their vulnerability to developmental delays.2 Access to ECDE in Zimbabwe is still low as the net enrolment rate is at 44.15% for 2022. The qualified teacher-pupil ratios are high which is at 1:54 compared to the recommended ratio of 1:20.

Objectives of the webinar

2.1.1. Main objective: To improve access to quality and inclusive early childhood development through strengthening the capacity of decision makers and civil society organizations in ECD financing; embracing digital literacy and innovative learning methods; and promoting collaboration among ECD stakeholders.

2.1.2. Specific objectives:

• To strengthen the capacity of the policy and decision-makers and civil society organizations in increasing pre-primary education financing in Zimbabwe through alternative means.
• To advocate for an increase in ECD financing to at least 10% of the total education budget so as to attain SDG4.2.
• To have increased knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of the significance of technology in education
• Explore alternatives to formal learning by adapting to technological processes and improvement of digital literacy.
•  To promote collaboration among different stakeholders in order to strengthen ECD policy engagement, advocacy and partnerships at all levels.