Samoa Launches Early Childhood Development Framework to Support Young Learners

By Losa Huntington

APIA, Samoa (Feb. 11, 2025) : Samoa has launched the Early Childhood Development (ECD) Framework 2024-2034, a decade-long initiative aimed at improving resources and services for young children in the country. The framework, introduced at a ceremony at Taumeasina Island Resort, outlines a holistic approach to childhood education, health, nutrition, protection, and community engagement.

Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa, who formally opened the event, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to investing in the early years of Samoan children.

“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,” Mataafa said. “ECD is not the responsibility of one agency but of all of us.”

The framework was developed in collaboration with UNICEF and aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Pasifika Call to Action on ECD. It prioritizes inclusive early childhood education, ensuring children across Samoa receive necessary support from birth through primary school.

Key Initiatives and Implementation

The launch event introduced several initiatives, including:

• The ECD Framework 2024-2034: A national strategy to enhance early learning, healthcare access, and child protection.
• The ECD Technical Working Group: A team of policymakers and experts to oversee the framework’s execution.
• The Samoa Extended ECD Development (SEED) Project: A grassroots initiative deploying frontline workers to provide technical support in villages.

The framework’s implementation will span both Upolu and Savaii, with workshops planned in all 51 districts to engage communities in the process.

Jonathan Veitch, UNICEF’s Pacific Representative, praised Samoa’s leadership in early childhood development.

“UNICEF is honored to have been a trusted technical partner in supporting the Government of Samoa on this journey,” Veitch said. “This framework marks a significant milestone not only for Samoa but for the entire Pacific region, reinforcing the importance of investing in early childhood development.”

A Call to Action

The initiative highlights key strategies to improve early childhood education and resilience. Its core focus includes:

• Expanding access to high-quality early education and professional development for educators.
• Enhancing health and nutrition programs to support children’s physical and emotional well-being.
• Strengthening child protection policies and ensuring safe learning environments.
• Encouraging active involvement from parents, caregivers, and communities in early childhood learning.

The event concluded with a call to action from Prime Minister Mataafa, urging parents, educators, and policymakers to work together in supporting young children.

“Our children are the heartbeat of our nation. Their success is Samoa’s legacy,” she said. “We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform the future of Samoa through bold and collective action.”

Samoa will continue to strengthen its commitment to early childhood education when it hosts the Pacific Island ECD Forum in May. The forum will bring together representatives from 15 Pacific nations to collaborate on best practices for early childhood development in the region.