The Government of Fiji has recently implemented the Fiji National Early Childhood Development Policy, focusing on the health and nutrition of children, particularly during their first 1,000 days, as stated by Health Minister Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu.
During the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Tonga, Dr. Lalabalavu emphasized the importance of children’s safety and protection for their lifelong health. He remarked, “We need to protect our children from violence of all kinds, abuse, neglect, and conflict. That is what this Policy means for Fiji.”
Highlighting the crucial role of children as the future of Fiji and the Pacific region, he affirmed that their needs and well-being will take priority in the national agenda. The focus will be on providing appropriate care, stimulation, and early learning opportunities while ensuring a nurturing environment for their development.
Dr. Lalabalavu also pointed out that a multisectoral National Early Childhood Development Advisory Committee was vital in the policy’s development. This committee, established in 2022, consists of representatives from various ministries, including Health, Education, Finance, Women, Children and Social Protection, as well as members from the University of the South Pacific, Fiji Red Cross, Frank Hilton Organisation, the judiciary, and several faith-based organizations.
At the initial stages, the advisory committee facilitated a consultation forum involving experts and policy specialists to address the current state of early childhood in Fiji, especially for those aged 0 to 8 years. This forum underscored the necessary policy directions that needed to be established.
“This crucial step contributed to the development of the Fiji ECD policy, which will deliver benefits across the Early Childhood Development sector and enhance outcomes for approximately 88,000 children aged 0 to 8 years in Fiji,” Dr. Lalabalavu concluded.