Parents have been urged not to gamble with their children’s future by delaying enrolment in Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres. Experts say the first years of a child’s life could determine how far they go in education and beyond.
The call was made during St Charles and Clare Schools’ Career Day, where learners dressed as professionals representing their dream careers and showcased their aspirations for the future.
Speaking at the event, the school’s Director, Yacinta Phiri, said quality early childhood education equips children with the knowledge, values and confidence they need to succeed academically, socially and emotionally.
She said ECD centres play a vital role in developing children’s cognitive abilities, social skills and discipline, thereby preparing them for a smooth transition into formal education.
“The journey to a successful future begins in early childhood. It is during this stage that children develop critical thinking skills, self-confidence and positive behaviour. We therefore encourage parents to enrol their children in recognised ECD centres because the benefits extend far beyond the classroom and last a lifetime,” said Phiri.
Phiri added that Career Day complements classroom learning by exposing children to a variety of professions at an early age, inspiring them to dream big and work towards meaningful careers.
A parent, Gift Kamanga Hara, applauded the initiative, saying introducing children to different career paths early in life helps nurture focused, responsible and ambitious citizens.
“When children are encouraged to dream and plan for their future from an early age, they grow up with a sense of purpose. Initiatives like this can help reduce social challenges such as crime and teenage pregnancies because children become focused on achieving their goals,” said Hara.
Meanwhile, Mzimba South Social Welfare Officer Bernard Nangwale commended St Charles and Clare Schools for promoting quality early childhood education, noting that children who attend ECD programmes are generally better prepared for primary school.
“Early Childhood Development provides children with a solid educational foundation. Those who pass through ECD centres are often more confident, better prepared and tend to perform better academically.
“Supporting children’s career aspirations from an early age is equally important, and we commend the school for creating such opportunities,” said Nangwale.
The Career Day attracted parents, teachers and learners, with children portraying a wide range of professions, including doctors, teachers, police officers, engineers and pilots.
