Quality Early Childhood Education: Shaping the Future
Conference Themes
The conference will bring together key ECE stakeholders comprising of policy makers, researchers, international, national and civil society organizations and practitioners. It will cover several key themes, including but not limited to:
Theme 1: Advancements in Quality Play-Based ECE
Learning Through Play (LTP) is an effective pedagogical strategy in ECE. Evidence shows that the best way that children learn is through play (LEGO Foundation & UNICEF, 2018). LTP emphasizes hands-on experiential activities that nurture children’s critical thinking, executive functioning, self-regulation and language skills, providing the platform for lifelong learning and success. The LTP approach is particularly relevant in Africa, where traditionally, play is deeply rooted in the cultures, and skill building for child development is organized around traditional games, storytelling, and riddles, among others. This approach aligns with the developmental needs of children, while also addressing the unique cultural, social and economic contexts of the continent.
Sub-themes:
1.1. Evidence-based Practices for Learning Through Play
1.2. ECE Interventions in Nigeria
1.3. Global Policy Frameworks for ECE
1.4. Socio-cultural Dynamics and ECE Practice
Theme 2: Expanding Investments in Early Childhood Services.
Investing in early childhood services is essential for societal development and prosperity, given that the early years are critical for cognitive, emotional, and social growth, influencing future success. Quality services, including health, nutrition, and early learning, ensure children reach developmental milestones and promote equity by supporting disadvantaged children. Economically, investment in quality early childhood education reduces remedial education needs,lowers dropout rates, and enhances workforce skills, driving societal and economic growth. Comprehensive program design, equitable access, workforce quality, data-driven decision making, community involvement and policy integration are among several key considerations that spur increased investments and impact effective resource allocation.
Sub-themes:
2.1. Sustainable Financing Models for ECD
2.2. Expanding Investments in ECD: What Works
2.3. Bridging the Silos in ECD Funding: Successful Holistic Approaches
Theme 3: Technological innovations in Pre- and Early-Grade Primary Education
Technological innovations in pre- and early-grade primary education are reshaping experiences for young learners, offering diverse learning opportunities. While traditional computers and search engines cultivate digital literacy skills, and prepare children for advanced tasks, the use of interactive media and touch screens facilitate exploration and creativity, nurturing a sense of accomplishment and curiosity. To advance literacy outcomes among children, it is necessary to recognize that innovation in early education extends beyond technology, embracing inventive teaching methods and curriculum design. Also, engaging in age-appropriate personalized learning would promote vibrant learning environments and empower young minds to flourish.
Sub-themes:
3.1 Development and Assessment of Educational Technologies for Early Learning
3.2 Indigenous African Tools for Measuring ECE Environment and Learning Quality
Theme 4: Inclusion and Equity
Equity and inclusion are fundamental for positive outcomes in Early Childhood Education (ECE). Equity ensures equal opportunities for all children, while inclusion values each child's unique identity and strengths. Strategies like culturally relevant pedagogy, multilingual approaches, and community engagement promote equity and inclusion, and challenges such as access barriers and biases must be addressed holistically.
Sub-themes:
4.1. Inclusive ECE for Children with Disabilities: Challenges, Barriers, and Opportunities
4.2. Expanding Equitable Access to Quality ECE for Marginalized Groups
4.3. Technology and Enhanced Accessibility and Inclusion in ECE
Theme 5: Community and Stakeholder Engagement
Effective partnerships in ECE are crucial for fostering meaningful connections and enhancing education environments, particularly for marginalized children. Meaningful community involvement plays a pivotal role in improving children’s outcomes by providing critical awareness, essential resources and facilitating enriched co-learning experiences. Such collaborations fund cultural adaptation of programs, and advance the knowledge and implementation of quality, inclusive ECE across home, community and school environments. These partnerships further drive continuous improvement in ECE practices through shared expertise, resource optimization, and culturally responsive methods.
Sub-themes:
5.1. Culturally Relevant Parenting Interventions in ECE Advancement
5.2 Effective Partnership and Collaboration Models: Lessons Learned
5.3. Father Involvement in ECE Initiatives