Since 2023, the project has supported the construction and renovation of early childhood care centres and primary schools for children aged 3 to 8 in the regions of Analamanga and Vakinankaratra. In the long term, over 4,000 children will benefit from a safe environment, educational activities, learning games, nutritious meals, and support that fosters their development. The project also includes training for teachers to ensure high-quality and sustainable care and education.
Economic difficulties, the lack of teachers, intra-regional disparities, and social stereotypes all hinder young children's early learning. Madagascar is also facing a growing trend of privatisation of schools and early childhood institutions, which restricts access for the most vulnerable. These factors, among others, help explain the low early childhood enrolment rates. Moreover, no system is yet in place to ensure continuity between preschool and primary education.
Key project activities include: the construction and equipping of early childhood centres and primary schools, the distribution of educational materials and learning games, teacher trainings, the provision of tools to help prepare children for primary school, awareness-raising sessions for families on the importance of early childhood education, and support to schools and local authorities to integrate education into their budgets.
The IEPPE project aims to improve the learning environment and support the overall development of more than 4,000 children aged 3 to 8 in the regions of Analamanga and Vakinankaratra, to accompany them on their educational journey. It also seeks to strengthen the sustainability of the early childhood education system by working in partnership with the State, communities, and civil society organisations.
