The Ministry of Education says it is working towards ensuring that every child has access to early childhood education which is critical for the improved cognitive development in children.

Ministry of Education Director Early childhood, Charm Kalimbika notes that for this reason, government is establishing 460 ECDE centres in all provinces aimed at having 300,000 children accessing early childhood education going forward.

He said so far 53 ECDE hubs have been constructed, while 20 are currently under construction across the country towards the set targets of 460.

Speaking during the opening of the technical working group, developing the early childhood Development education in Lusaka, Mr Kalimbika reiterated the significant need for collaboration among various stakeholders on the development of ECDE.

He explained that ECDE is important in the country as it is the foundation of any human being in terms of education.

And Ministry of Community Development and Social Services Director, Child development, Beatrice Muyambango reaffirmed the significant role the children’s code is doing in addressing the challenges faced by children.

She added that with the children’s code in place, anyone abusing the rights of children can be made responsible for their ill actions against children.

She further noted that there is a need to advocate against early child marriages which have negatively affected their education.

Meanwhile, Lusaka District Education Board Secretary (DEBS), Ian Miyoba, has commended the Ministry of Education for establishing ECDE centres in Lusaka district as it will assist in imparting elementary education in children.

He explained that ECDE is a vital component in the education life of children, adding that the gesture by the Ministry of Education to set up ECDE in Lusaka District is a step in the right direction.