The Sidama National Regional State Steering Committee has approved a five-year roadmap that will guide Early Childhood Development (ECD) efforts in the region.
Speaking at the meeting, the Regional Deputy Chief Administrator and Head of the Education Bureau, Mr. Beyene Barasa, stated that the roadmap prepared to guide the implementation of the region’s ECD program over the next five years will significantly contribute to ensuring holistic and well-balanced development for children, who are the future of the country, once it is fully put into practice.
Members of the Steering Committee noted that the roadmap addresses key priority areas critical to child development. They emphasized that interventions and support provided during early childhood are decisive in shaping children’s lifelong outcomes, and therefore must be implemented with strong focus and commitment.
It was also agreed during the meeting that, since the roadmap incorporates coordinated actions across the sectors of education, health, women, youth, and social affairs, all relevant stakeholders must give due attention to its effective implementation.
The first phase of the Early Childhood Development program will be implemented in seven cities across the region, including Hawassa.
