Samoa has officially launched the Early Childhood Development (ECD) Framework 2024-2034. This initiative aims to provide children in Samoa with access to essential resources for growth, learning, and development from early childhood. The launch occurred on February 11, 2025, at the Taumeasina Island Resort, attended by dignitaries, donors, and key stakeholders.
Honourable Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa, who officially opened the event, emphasized the government’s commitment to prioritising the well-being and development of children. She stated,
“The launch of the Early Childhood Development Framework is a defining moment for Samoa. The early years define a child’s ability to learn, grow, and contribute to society. As a nation, we cannot afford to neglect these formative years. If we want to build a stronger Samoa, we must start with our youngest citizens. ECD is not the responsibility of one agency but of all of us.”
The ECD Framework 2024-2034 is a national initiative designed to provide a holistic approach to early childhood development, focusing on education, nutrition, health, protection and community engagement. Created in collaboration with UNICEF, the framework aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and indicates Samoa’s adherence to the Pasifika Call to Action on ECD.
Key Initiatives Launched:
- The ECD Framework 2024-2034: A roadmap designed to deliver quality early childhood services and ensure that every Samoan child has access to early learning opportunities, healthcare, and protection.
- The ECD Technical Working Group: A team of experts and policymakers dedicated to overseeing the implementation of the framework.
- The Samoa Extended ECD Development (SEED) Project: A community-based initiative deploying frontline workers to provide technical support across villages to directly support families and communities in early childhood development.
Honourable Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa acknowledged the contributions of international and local partners, particularly UNICEF, for their support of Samoa’s early childhood development plan.
The framework also highlights key strategies for improving early childhood education, fostering resilience, promoting inclusion and equity. It includes an emphasis on:
- Improving Quality of Early Childhood Education: Expanding access to high-quality programs and professional development for educators.
- Health and Nutrition: Providing enhanced health services and nutrition programs to support physical and emotional well-being.
- Protection and Safety: Implementing stronger protective measures for children to ensure a secure learning environment.
- Responsive Caregiving: Promoting active involvement from parents, caregivers, and local communities in early childhood education.
- Opportunities for Learning: Ensuring all children have equal access to early childhood education.
The ECD Framework will be implemented in both Upolu and Savaii, with community engagement workshops planned for the 51 districts of Samoa. UNICEF Pacific Representative Jonathan Veitch shared the organization’s commitment to ensuring that every child feels safe and protected.
“UNICEF is honoured to have been a trusted technical partner in supporting the Government of Samoa on this journey,” said UNICEF’s Pacific Representative, Jonathan Veitch.
“The launch of this Framework marks a significant milestone not only for Samoa but for the entire Pacific region, reinforcing the critical importance of investing in early childhood development.”
The launch event also included a call to action for parents, caregivers, educators and health workers to engage in early childhood development efforts. The Prime Minister concluded by stating, “Our children are the heartbeat of our nation, their success is Samoa’s legacy. I challenge us all, parents and caregivers, your child’s future starts with you. Talk, read and nurture. We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform the future of Samoa through bold and collective action.”
The Early Childhood Development Framework is set to play a transformative role in shaping the future of Samoa’s children, guiding policymakers, educators, and communities to ensure that every child reaches their full potential. In May, Samoa will host the Pacific Island ECD Forum, bringing together representatives from 15 Pacific island countries to collaborate and share best practices in early childhood development across the region.
For media inquiries or more information about the Early Childhood Development (ECD) Framework and the launch event, please contact: Sauoaiga Olive Kaio, [email protected] or Misa Luisa Lemisio at [email protected].
LAUGA A LE AFIOGA I LE PALEMIA
