Ethiopia: University Steps Up Efforts to Expand Quality Early Childhood Education

ADDIS ABABA — Kotebe University of Education (KUE) is spearheading efforts to enhance the accessibility, quality, and equity of early childhood education as a cornerstone for national development and a critical investment in future generations.

In a landmark event, KUE, in collaboration with the PlayMatters Consortium, hosted Ethiopia’s inaugural national conference on play-based learning yesterday, coinciding with the International Day of Play. The conference is a key part of a broader initiative to integrate play into the core of early childhood education.

Speaking at the conference, Women and Social Affairs State Minister Hikma Keyeredin, emphasized that investing in early childhood education is vital for building a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

“Disparities in national development often stem from differences in human development investments,” she stated, affirming Ethiopia’s commitment to improving educational access, quality, and equity.

The State Minister highlighted the profound impact of play-based learning, noting its role in enhancing educational quality by fostering creativity, social skills, and a genuine love for learning in children. She urged that this innovative approach be given serious consideration.

KUE President Berhanemeskel Tena (PhD) asserted that play is not a luxury but a fundamental necessity for nurturing creativity, confidence, empathy, and resilience in children. He stressed the critical importance of the early years, from birth to age six, for brain development, citing research that identifies play as a powerful tool in this crucial stage.

“In Ethiopia, where nearly half the population is under 15 and access to quality early childhood education remains a challenge, play-based learning offers a cost-effective, inclusive, and culturally relevant solution,” Berhanemeskel explained.

He noted that integrating play into the curriculum supports holistic development and bridges traditional knowledge with modern pedagogy. The President also indicated that the Ministry of Education is expected to draft a policy framework to formally incorporate play into early learning curricula, aiming to boost engagement and improve educational outcomes nationwide.

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) Country Director Paolo Cernuschi underscored his organization’s commitment to ensuring that school-aged children achieve essential literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional skills.