The Ministry of Women and Early Childhood in Chad, in collaboration with the World Bank, has initiated a five-day workshop in Koundoul aimed at enhancing the capacities of preschool actors and community school leaders. The event, which commenced on October 5, brings together 91 participants from N'Djamena and several provinces. The primary objective of this workshop is to improve the knowledge and pedagogical practices of these actors to better cater to young children in community structures.
The workshop focuses on several key areas, including the role of preschool actors, the organization of community spaces, and activities that stimulate early childhood development. Additionally, the sessions cover essential topics such as hygiene, nutrition, and child protection. Participants are also trained in the creation and utilization of educational materials using locally sourced materials. This initiative seeks to professionalize the practices of community actors and foster learning environments that are better suited to the needs of young children.
The significance of preschool education in the development of children was underscored by Mme Basgué née Toubakéré Midir, the Deputy Secretary General of the Ministry of Women and Early Childhood. She emphasized that preschool education should not be viewed merely as a preparatory phase for primary education but as a critical lever for child development. According to her, the approach adopted during the workshop prioritizes concrete situations and realities encountered on the ground.
The exercises and practical sessions planned during the workshop are designed to equip participants with tools that can be directly applied in preschool and community structures. This hands-on approach aims to ensure that the knowledge and skills gained are effectively translated into improved practices. By doing so, the ministry hopes to enhance the quality of preschool education and provide children with a more conducive environment for their development and growth.
The World Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Chadian government in strengthening the educational system, particularly in the area of early childhood development. This partnership underscores the bank's recognition of the importance of investing in the foundational years of a child's education. Through this collaboration, the government aims to bolster the competencies of field actors and improve the overall quality of preschool education.
The ultimate goal of this initiative is to offer children a better chance at development and self-fulfillment by enhancing the capacities of those who play a critical role in their early education. By focusing on community-based preschools, the ministry and its partners are working to ensure that young children, especially those in underserved areas, have access to quality educational opportunities that lay a solid foundation for their future.
As the workshop progresses, participants are expected to gain valuable insights and practical skills that will enable them to make a positive impact in their respective communities. With the support of the World Bank and other partners, the Ministry of Women and Early Childhood in Chad is poised to make significant strides in improving the quality of preschool education, thereby contributing to the holistic development of the country's young population.
Key points
- The workshop aims to improve pedagogical practices and provide community actors with tools to better cater to young children.
- Preschool education is emphasized as a critical lever for child development, not just a preparatory phase for primary education.
- The initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen Chad's educational system, particularly in early childhood development.
