Gender Minister says investing in early childhood development must be national priority

The Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has described Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD)as a cost-effective strategy to break cycles of poverty and foster sustainable growth hence the call for investing in ECCD to be made a national priority.

She made the statement during the 7th sitting of the National Children’s Parliament, on Thursday in Accra, to mark World Children’s Day on the theme “My Right: Investing in Early Childhood a National Priority.”

This theme provided a platform for children to share their views on the revised Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Policy and she explained that the revised ECCD policy takes an integrated approach, focusing on the holistic development of children from birth to age eight.

She stated that every child deserves the opportunity to develop to their full potential in an environment of dignity and freedom, emphasizing that a child's early years forms the foundation for learning, behavior, and health.

The Minister outlined key areas for action, including expanding access to quality childcare and preschools, supporting parents with resources, promoting breastfeeding and good nutrition, improving healthcare access, and creating safe environments for children.

Dr. Lartey announced that with support from UNICEF, the Ministry is developing a national parenting strategy and also urged all stakeholders to direct their actions toward building a better world for children to make early childhood investment a cornerstone of the national agenda.

The Country Director of Plan International Ghana, Madam Constant Tchona, stated that when investment is made in Early Childhood Care and Development, ‘we are not just providing a service; we are making the most strategic investment a nation can make.’’

“We are building a generation of critical thinkers, innovators, and leaders. We are breaking cycles of poverty, inequality, and discrimination before they take root. We are, quite simply, securing our collective future,” she added.

Furthermore, she said “We have heard and listened to your powerful deliberations today and we commit to carrying your recommendations forward to the policymakers and leaders. Let us match the courage and clarity of these children with our own commitment to action and investment."

“To the children of Ghana: You have a right to be heard, to be safe, to learn, and to thrive. Plan International Ghana will continue to work tirelessly alongside you and for you, to ensure that every girl and every boy can live a life free from fear and full of opportunity,” she added.