Enabling pre-school children to thrive in Early Child Development Centres
By Samuel Zerihun, Communications Coordinator at World Vision Ethiopia
Abdi Borru Early Childhood Development (ECD) centre is found in Omonada district in Jimma zone of the Oromia region. The wide compound having two learning blocks is full of child-suited colourful learning materials such as letters and numbers stuck across the wall with soft, cushioned mats on the floor, inviting little ones to crawl and roll. The air is filled with the sweet sound of nursery rhymes, sung by children. In one corner, a group of children sit in a circle, eagerly listening to a story. Nearby, small tables filled with arts and crafts made of local material for indoor games. The room is a haven of joy and exploration. When you walk away out of the room a spacious playground awaits, with swings, slides, and climbing structures designed for safe and active play.
The establishment of Abdi Borru ECD centre has brought about a new opportunity for many pre-school children like Eliham, a bright and curious six-year-old girl. At first, Eliham struggled to socialise with children and identify the simplest letters and numbers. She had no place for early learning and playing with her peers. But with the ECD centre's supportive environment and encouragement, she began to show remarkable progress. Her confidence grew with each passing day, and she started to enjoy learning.
Eliham attends the ECD centre five days a week engaging in a wide range of activities that fostered her intellectual and social skills. Through interactive games, puzzles, and creative exercises she gradually began to recognise letters, numbers, and common words. The teaching method of the centre allowed Eliham to acquire knowledge in a funny and engaging manner, making the learning process both enjoyable and meaningful for her. Eliham reflects:
“Here I learn letters, numbers, sing songs and play different indoor and outdoor games with my friends” - says Eilham
The ECD programme not only helped Eliham develop her academic skills but it enabled her to foster her emotional and social well-being. She made new friends at the centre, learned how to share and take turns, and developed essential life skills. Thanks to the ECD programme, Eliham is now well-prepared to go to first grade with confidence with a strong foundation in literacy and numeracy. Her parents are grateful for the opportunity to give their daughter a head start in life.
Eliham’s father, Mohammed Hassen shared his heartfelt testimony about his daughter’s progress after attending the Early Childhood Development centre:
"I am truly amazed by the progress Eliham has made since attending the ECD centre. She enjoys attending the ECD centre. She draws pictures, reads words and numbers at home” he says. “I am grateful for the opportunity to enroll her in such a nurturing and supportive programme. It has truly made a positive impact on her growth and socialization,” he adds.
According to the Ministry of Education's 2023 annual abstract, about 5 million (53%) pre-primary age children are out of early childhood education (ECE) service nationally. Since 2014, World Vision Ethiopia has established around 1,000 ECD centres in schools and villages, reaching over 100,000 children in Ethiopia.
The ECD centres are more than just a place for education, they become a welcoming space where children are excited to spend their time playing. Eliham aspires to be a doctor, and the centre enabled her to socialize and develop her confidence.