The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection and the UNICEF will today launch the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Policy to enhance children’s cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development.
The policy emphasises strengthened coordination and effective multi-sectoral implementation, increased and sustainable financing, improved service, equitable access and delivery, and robust accountability mechanisms.
It also addresses key gaps identified in the evaluation of the 2004 Policy and aligns with Ghana’s national development priorities, constitutional commitments, international child rights obligations, and Nurturing Care Framework.
It promotes integrated interventions across health, nutrition, early learning, and responsive caregiving. safety and security, and inclusion through targeted and coordinated interventions.
The Policy further aims to reduce child and maternal mortality, address malnutrition, prevent educational setbacks, combat child abuse, and reduce child poverty. It places particular emphasis on supporting vulnerable and marginalised children (0-8years) to realise their full developmental potential.
The launch is expected to attract about 200 participants, including representatives from Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), development partners, civil society organisations, academia, the private sector, the media, parents and caregivers, faith-based and traditional leaders, as well as children.
In a statement, the Ministry said the launch constitutes a strategic investment in Ghana’s future.
“It reaffirms the nation’s commitment to coordinated, cost-effective interventions that safeguard children’s rights and drive holistic development and sustainable national progress.”
Expected outcomes include nationwide dissemination, strengthened partnerships, enhanced multi-sectoral collaboration, and increased public awareness.
Post-launch efforts will focus on comprehensive dissemination and effective implementation at all levels, including the institutionalisation of the coordination framework outlined in the Policy.
Story by Hajara Fuseini
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Source:
opemsuo.com