The Fijian government has recently implemented the Fiji National Early Childhood Development Policy, which emphasizes the health and nourishment of children during their crucial first 1000 days, according to Health Minister Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu.
During the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Tonga, he highlighted the importance of children’s safety and protection for promoting lifelong health. “We must shield our children from all forms of violence, abuse, neglect, and conflict. This is the essence of the Policy for Fiji,” he stated.
Dr. Lalabalavu stressed that children represent the future of Fiji and the Pacific region, and their needs and welfare will take precedence on the national agenda, ensuring they receive appropriate care, stimulation, and opportunities for early learning in a nurturing environment.
He noted that a crucial component in developing this policy involved the collaboration of a multisectoral National Early Childhood Development Advisory Committee, which was formed in 2022. The committee includes representatives from various sectors, including the Ministries of Health, Education, Finance, Women, Children and Social Protection, the University of the South Pacific, Fiji Red Cross, Frank Hilton Organisation, the judiciary, as well as several faith-based organizations.
At the early stages of the policy development, the advisory committee supported a consultation forum, where experts and policy specialists examined the current landscape of early childhood care in Fiji, particularly for children aged 0 to 8 years, and identified essential policy directions.
“This significant initiative has played a role in shaping the Fiji ECD policy, which aims to bring benefits across the sector and enhance outcomes for approximately 88,000 children in that age group in Fiji.”