Review of early childhood policy and programs in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

This study reviews current early childhood development (ECD) programs and policies that are attempting to meet the development needs of children in sub-Saharan Africa especially those that focus on intersecting health nutritional and educational needs of children up to age 6 in their institutional and sociocultural settings. Data were collected through a review of the documentation collections of the World Bank and the UN Childrens Fund through direct contacts with agencies and through interviews. The introductory chapter describes the focus of the report its methodology and its organization. Chapter 2 provides an overview of the objectives and coverage of the 11 ECD approaches selected for study. Chapter 3 discusses key ECD issues dealing with delivery models and implementation; program quality; institutional cooperation; and scale costs financing and sustainability. The analysis works outward from programs and policies that directly affect children and their families to levels of community regional national and international support. Chapter 4 summarizes considerations for action and the fifth chapter evaluates existing gaps in the experiences reviewed and in the understanding of efforts in the region and highlights challenges to supporting and extending ECD in the region.