Garissa government to invest more in Early Childhood Education

Garissa Governor Nathif Jama says his administration will continue to allocate more funds to Early Childhood Development Education infrastructure, personnel, play and learning resources to steer learners to their full potential.

Speaking on Wednesday after a two-day training programme for ECDE teachers at Garissa Primary School, Jama said his administration will provide holistic, coordinated and integrated quality ECDE services.

“Quality learning and good results can only be achieved with good learning materials. That is why we continue to pump in funds to improve this important sector,” he said.

He said his administration has developed the county ECDE policy, adding that this will go a long way in contributing to the sustainable development goal for quality education.

“We want to ensure all girls and boys have access to quality, early childhood development care and pre-primary education so that they are ready for primary education,” he said.

He said his administration will motivate ECDE teachers to boost their morale, noting they play an important role in nurturing learners.

“We appreciate the work ECDE teachers are doing to shape young minds, and we will continue giving you the support you need,” he said.

He instructed the county’s ECDE department to absorb all teachers permanently and ensure learning materials for the schools are purchased and released before the new term.

At the same time, the governor reiterated his promise to employ 200 ECDE teachers to plug existing gaps.

He promised to train the teachers every six months and host them at an end-of-year gala to celebrate and honour the best schools and teachers.

Chief Officer of ECDE Abdi Ali said the shortlisting of the 200 new ECDE teachers will be carried out in two weeks. He called on all stakeholders to support the county’s efforts.

by STEVE ASTARIKO