National statistics and research consistently indicate that Early Childhood Development (ECD) outcomes in Tanzania remain below optimal. To bridge this gap, a more unified and coordinated effort is critical. Multi-sectoral collaboration remains one of the key approaches to improving ECD outcomes and strengthening foundational learning across the country.
In response to this need, the Aga Khan University's Institute for Human Development (IHD), in partnership with the Institute for Educational Development, East Africa (IED, EA), conducted a one-week seminar in Arusha to equip 27 multi-sectoral stakeholders drawn from higher education institutions, development partners, international and local NGOs, faith-based organizations, and grassroots community actors advancing early childhood development in Tanzania.
“The objective of conducting the seminar under the Science of Early Childhood Development (SECD) programme is to build the capacity of ECD practitioners to enable them to deliver quality nurturing care services for young children," emphasized Dr Fortidas Bakuza, Interim Dean, IED, EA.
The seminar covered five key focus areas including: brain development; coping and competence; communicating and learning; and the ecology of childhood developmental health. Grounded in evidence, the discussions reinforced the importance of investing in the first 1,000 days of life – a critical period that shapes brain development, health, learning ability, and long-term productivity.
Strengthening ECD capacity is direct driver for Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4.2, which ensures that all children have access to quality early childhood care, development, and pre-primary education. It also supports SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by improving maternal and child health, and SDG 5 (Gender Equality) by empowering women and caregivers.
The seminar also highlighted the return on investment in ECD. Research indicates that for every dollar invested in early childhood development, there is a return of between $7 and $13 US dollars annually, reinforcing ECD as both a social and economic priority.
Participants expressed enthusiasm and appreciation for the knowledge gained during the seminar with key takeaways:
“The first five years shape a child's brain, health, and future productivity," said Tumaini Fred, Senior Gender and Social Behavior Change Specialist, Girl Effect Tanzania.
“The key message I have taken away from this seminar is that early childhood is not preparation for life, it is life," said Stephen Erasto from Maasai Pastoralists Development Initiatives (MPDI).
AKU remains committed to the Science of Early Childhood Development as a holistic approach to strengthening education systems, advancing national development priorities, and contributing to Tanzania's broader sustainable development agenda.
