The national curriculum for kindergartens, introduced in 2009 under the name Na Noda Mataniciva, is set for a review. Selina Kuruleca, the permanent secretary of the Education Ministry, announced this collaboration with UNICEF during the 2024 Fiji Early Childhood Teachers Association conference held at the FNU Campus in Lautoka last week.
Kuruleca noted that the Ministry has allocated funds for a professional development forum for early childhood education (ECE) teachers, where the updated ECE policy will be unveiled. She emphasized that the event’s theme, “Towards Quality Early Learning: A Passion in Action,” reflects the collective commitment to fostering the well-being and education of the youngest learners.
The government has pledged approximately $22.3 million for early childhood education in the 2024-2025 financial year, highlighting the significance of ECE for Fiji’s future. Kuruleca stressed that investing in early childhood is essential for shaping the paths of both individuals and communities.
During the conference, ECE teachers were urged to impart hope, compassion, creativity, and respect to young learners. Kuruleca challenged educators to become change-makers in the educational landscape.