Last Wednesday, Samoa reached a significant milestone by endorsing its comprehensive Early Childhood Development (ECD) Framework, underscoring its dedication to fostering the health, education, and well-being of its youngest citizens. This framework, built on a multisectoral approach, sets the stage for a unified effort to enhance early childhood development across the nation.

The ECD Framework outlines the establishment of a National ECD Advisory Board, which will oversee the continuous implementation and progress of the framework. This board brings together key ministries, including the Ministry of Women, Community, and Social Development (MWCSD), Ministry of Education, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Finance, and Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. Their combined efforts will ensure a cohesive strategy that integrates health, education, and social services for young children.

The Ministry extends heartfelt gratitude to UNICEF Pacific for its ongoing commitment and invaluable support throughout the framework’s development. Acknowledgment is also given to government ministries, civil society organizations (CSOs), and communities who contributed significantly during the consultation process.

Honorable Minister Mulipola Anarosa Ale-Molio'o, a strong advocate for children’s well-being, emphasized the importance of this initiative:

“This framework represents our collective commitment to place children at the center of our national development. By focusing on their early years, we are investing in a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive.”

As Samoa gears up to host the Early Childhood Development Forum in mid-May 2025, the nation is poised to lead the Pacific region in promoting early childhood initiatives. This will be the first time the forum is held outside of Fiji, signaling Samoa’s growing leadership in this critical area.

The next key steps involve:

• Finalizing the composition and operational guidelines of the National ECD Advisory Board.

• Developing detailed implementation plans across the involved ministries.

• Engaging further with stakeholders, including communities and CSOs, to ensure broad-based support and inclusivity.

• Preparing for the upcoming ECD Forum, which will serve as a platform to share best practices, innovations, and lessons learned from across the Pacific.

Roshni Basu, UNICEF Pacific Deputy Representative, lauded Samoa’s commitment:

“We commend the Government of Samoa for its visionary leadership in early childhood development. This framework is a critical step in securing a brighter future for Samoa’s children,and UNICEF is honored to be part of this journey.”

The ECD Framework sets a transformative path forward, ensuring that the youngest members of Samoa’s society are equipped with the necessary resources and support to lead healthy, fulfilling

lives.

ENDS.

UNICEF Pacific

Government of Samoa

Ministry of Finance, Government of Samoa

Ministry of Education and Culture

ARNEC

January 20, 2025