High Quality ECE: “I Demand Access”
- Winsome M. Sherrier Witter
- Sep 22
- 3 min read
"High quality early childhood education is not a privilege. It is a right."
These powerful words framed the foundation of our latest Child Rights Series 2025 forum, hosted by Serenity Resource Connector in partnership with the Early Childhood Commission. Held under the theme "High Quality ECE: I Demand Access", the episode sparked an enlightening and practical conversation around Article 28 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child — focusing on equal access to early childhood education and the global efforts needed to close the gap.
Why High Quality ECE Matters Now More Than Ever
Children everywhere deserve to thrive in nurturing environments that stimulate cognitive, emotional, social and moral development — long before they step into a formal classroom.
Yet, the reality is sobering:
Global enrolment in pre-primary education fell from 75% in 2020 to 72% in 2022.
If current trends continue, 37% of children — over 300 million — will not meet minimum reading proficiency by 2030.
Children with disabilities remain 25% less likely to attend early childhood programmes.
These disparities are not just numbers — they represent lost potential, inequality and generations of children left behind.
The Power of Partnership: Voices from the Field
Our vibrant panel brought together local and international perspectives, highlighting successful frameworks and urgent challenges:
Shaunakay Wilson-Hudson (ECC)
Emphasised that inclusive, equitable and child-centred systems are central to Article 28.
Called for holistic curricula that nurture curiosity, problem-solving and creativity.
Notably highlighted that the current curriculum is undergoing review to better integrate inclusive strategies and methodologies.
Emphasised that inclusive, equitable and child-centred systems are central to Article 28.
Called for holistic curricula that nurture curiosity, problem-solving and creativity.
Dr. Maria Julia Garcete Yegros (Interamerican Children’s Institute)
Advocated for free and mandatory ECE from the early years.
Emphasised the importance of attitude change, not just infrastructure, in breaking down barriers.
Simone Ellis-Dixon (ECC)
Delivered a passionate response to disability exclusion, championing:
Inclusive classrooms over separation.
Accessible facilities (wheelchair ramps, adapted restrooms).
Individual Learning Support Plans (ILSPs) based on early screening.
Ongoing training for teachers and webinars for parents.
Their unified message? Quality early childhood education must be accessible to all children — regardless of ability, geography, or socioeconomic status.
From Talk to Action: Policy, Programmes, Progress
Jamaica continues to lead the region with a wide range of impactful initiatives:
Brain Builder Centres: Free stimulation and nutrition for 0–3-year-olds.
National Strategic Plan: Now in its 4th phase, encompassing screening, curriculum and educator development.
12 Operating Standards: Guiding inspections and certification.
Legacy Classrooms: Inclusive learning environments made possible through donor support.
Screening Pathways & ILSPs: From age four, children are assessed and supported with tailored interventions.
It’s a whole-child, whole-community approach — and it’s working.
A Call to Love, Learn and Lead
Dr. Maria left us with a universal message rooted in four guiding values:
"Be thankful. Be brave. Love. Learn."
Her words, echoed by ECC leaders, remind us that real change begins with mindset and is powered by compassion, data and collaboration.
We must meet children where they are, not where the system expects them to be. That is inclusion in action.
Watch the Replay & Spread the Word
Missed the live forum? Catch the full replay and hear firsthand how local innovation and international partnership are reshaping early childhood education:
Let’s keep the momentum going. Share this blog, talk to a colleague, or start a conversation in your community. Change starts with awareness.
Connect | Educate | Empower
Stay tuned for our next session in the Child Rights Series 2025 and subscribe to our mailing list for weekly blog posts and resources.
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