Over 88,000 children in Fiji, specifically those aged up to eight years, represent around 10 percent of the country’s population. Despite this significant number, many of these children are confronted with challenges due to environments that do not adequately support their development and potential.
To address these issues, the Fiji Government, in partnership with UNICEF Pacific and the New Zealand Government, has introduced the National Early Childhood Development (ECD) Policy for the years 2024-2028 in Suva. UNICEF Pacific’s deputy representative, Roshni Basu, emphasized that this policy marks a significant step for both Fiji and the broader Pacific region.
Basu highlighted the critical nature of early childhood development, stating that the early years of a child’s life set the tone for their future learning, health, and behavior. She noted that during these formative years, children’s brains form over one million neural connections every second, underscoring the importance of quality experiences in fostering strong developmental foundations.
Moreover, for children to thrive, they require adequate healthcare, nutrition, protection from harm, and a sense of security. New Zealand High Commissioner Charlotte Darlow expressed her support for the initiative, praising Fiji for prioritizing the needs of its young citizens with a dedicated policy focused on early childhood.
Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica reiterated the advantages of investing in early childhood development, stating that every dollar spent can lead to improvements in health, education, and job opportunities, ultimately benefitting the workforce and helping to reduce poverty. He affirmed that the ECD policy aims to provide comprehensive care, nutrition, and educational opportunities for all children while safeguarding them from abuse and neglect.
This initiative is not only pivotal for the present generation of children but also establishes a sustainable foundation for future leaders and citizens of Fiji, fostering a hopeful outlook for the nation’s young population.
In summary, the launch of the National Early Childhood Development Policy represents a concerted effort to enhance the welfare and developmental opportunities for Fiji’s children, highlighting the nation’s commitment to nurturing its future generation.
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