First Lady Oluremi Tinubu emphasized the importance of early childhood education in shaping children’s lives during a high-level forum for women leaders in Africa yesterday. The event took place in Bujumbura, the capital of Burundi.
Tinubu joined other First Ladies in highlighting the critical role women play in nurturing children, especially in their early years. She stated that these formative years are key to a child’s future development.
“Research has shown that the years from birth to age eight are crucial for a child’s cognitive, physical, and emotional growth. These early years lay the foundation for their future, affecting their education and long-term well-being,” she said. “Early childhood development is also vital for sustainable development and national prosperity.”
She noted that First Ladies have a unique influence and responsibility to shape policies that benefit future generations. “I believe that early childhood development should be our top priority due to its profound impact on individuals and society. As women leaders and mothers, we can advocate for social change, especially for women and children.”
Tinubu, who is also a lifelong teacher, emphasized the need for greater support to enhance government efforts in implementing early childhood education policies. “Early childhood development is one of the most important areas where we can make a lasting difference,” she stated.
Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye highlighted the significance of family in determining child outcomes. He urged parents to take their responsibilities seriously. “We cannot develop ourselves or our children without our culture. We have all the resources we need within our culture. A good relationship between parents is crucial for raising successful children,” he said.
Other speakers at the forum, including the First Ladies of Slovenia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gambia, and Turkey, as well as representatives from the UN and UNICEF, stressed the importance of school feeding programs. They believe these initiatives can encourage children to attend school at an early age, particularly in Africa.
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