FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Samoa Launches Nationwide Rollout of Early Childhood Development Framework
Apia, Samoa – The Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development (MWCSD), in partnership with key government and community stakeholders, has officially launched the national implementation of Samoa’s Early Childhood Development (ECD) Framework — a landmark initiative aimed at giving every child the best start in life.
The launch was held today at Papauta and gathered more than 70 participants, including parents, early childhood educators, caregivers, and village leaders. This marks the beginning of a two-week program from March 25 to April 8, which will reach all 51 districts and engage more than 600 participants nationwide.
The campaign features socialisation sessions in 12 key districts, offering practical, interactive learning opportunities for families and communities to better understand the ECD Framework and its application in everyday life. Districts include: Vaimauga 3, A’ana Alofi 4, A’ana Alofi 3, Lepa, Safata 1, Salega 1, Palauli 1, Gagaifomauga 2, Gagaifomauga 1, Palauli 2, Fa’asaleleaga 1, and Aiga-i-le-Tai.
A Commitment to Nurturing Samoa’s Future
The ECD Framework promotes a holistic and culturally grounded approach to early childhood development, focusing on five core areas: health and nutrition, early learning, responsive caregiving, safety and protection, and security and inclusion.
“Today we affirm that real change begins in our homes and villages… This initiative brings us back to the heart of who we are as a people,” said Loau Donina Va’a, CEO of MWCSD.
Each session includes presentations, dialogue, and hands-on workshops with key topics such as:
• Understanding Early Childhood Development
• Health and Nutrition for Young Children
• The Importance of Early Learning and Inclusive Education
• Parent-Led Reading and Literacy Engagement
Participants will receive ECD resources, workshop notes, activity guides, and key messages to ensure the knowledge shared is carried forward in homes and communities.
A Collective Effort for Collective Impact
This initiative is led by MWCSD in collaboration with UNICEF Pacific , the Ministry of Education and Culture , the Ministry of Health Samoa , and other key partners. It supports Samoa’s national development goals and commitment to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, ensuring a generation of children who are safe, supported, and ready to thrive.
“A child’s first classroom is the home. Your guidance shapes their future — from infancy to adulthood,” shared Tuuamaali Elikapo, a parent from Tanugamanono.
The programme will continue across Upolu, Savai’i, Manono, and Apolima, ensuring that every community has access to this critical awareness initiative.
For media inquiries or more information, please contact: Sauoaiga Olive Kaio okaio@mwcsd.gov.ws
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