Zomba District Council promotes expansion of early childhood education centers

Zomba District Council says it is working with non-governmental organizations to strengthen Community Based Childcare Centers (CBCCs) so that children can access education from an early age.

The Acting Director of Community and Social Services for Zomba District Council, Paul Simfukwe, made the remarks during a quarterly review meeting jointly organized by the council and NGOs implementing CBCC education programs to enhance early childhood education services.

He said children are more likely to excel in primary school if they begin their learning journey through early childhood education centers, and he urged parents to enroll their children in such institutions.

He also commended organizations including Youth for Development and Productivity (YODEP), Passion Center, Future Vision, SAFE, Tikondwe, TIPOLISO, Joyce Banda Foundation, and PASD, among others, for their contribution to the development of early childhood education in Zomba District.

“It is important for all stakeholders to work together to strengthen early childhood education. As Zomba District Council, we are committed to collaborating with every organization running Community Based Childcare Centers,” he said.

Speaking at the meeting, the Executive Director of Passion Center, Pastor Saul Mateyu, said the organization has constructed early childhood education centers in various parts of Zomba District and supports learners in the schools with uniforms and other learning materials.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Executive Director of Youth for Development and Productivity (YODEP), Doshani Kumwenda, said the organization has constructed 351 Community Based Childcare Centers (CBCCs) across Zomba District.

He added that children who started their education in these early childhood centers are performing well in primary school.