WHY IS THE UNIVERSALISATION OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION IMPORTANT? Bal Raksha Bharat’S NEW REPORT OFFERS ANSWERS

A large body of work has demonstrated that investing in early childhood reaps greater returns as compared to investing on a person at any other phase of life. This process is extremely sensitive to external influence from home, care settings and community interaction. A robust and comprehensive Early Childhood Education (ECE) programme for 3-6 years old children, catering to the specific needs of this age group, is an essential social good.

Centre for Budget and Governance Accountability (CBGA) along with Bal Raksha Bharat conducted a study to estimate the cost of universalisation of quality ECE in India. A concerted effort has been made to understand the cost of quality ECE service and gauge the magnitude of total resources required for providing quality early learning and care to all 3-6 years age group children.

The report: ‘Cost of Universalising Early Childhood Education (ECE) in India’ makes pertinent recommendations for ensuring widespread coverage of ECE services. It drives home the message that universalisation of ECE is an investment and not a cost burden.

The report was launched at the India International Centre on 20th September 2022. Ms Vrinda Sarup, Former Secretary, Ministry of Education, Government of India delivered the opening remarks as she lauded how such studies aid in better policymaking. Glimpses: