education 26 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Government Set to Launch ECCE Policy for Stronger Early Childhood Foundations
The Ministry of Education and Sports will launch Uganda's first standalone Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) policy this week in Kampala, aiming to boost government involvement, ensure safety standards, and provide equitable access for children aged 0-6. The policy responds to recent safety concerns like the Ggaba tragedy by mandating licensing, banning boarding for young children, and professionalizing caregivers. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/-inside-govt-s-plan-to-offer-early-childhood-care-education-5437642
The Ugandan government is gearing up to officially roll out its inaugural Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) policy this week at Nakivubo Blue Primary School in Kampala. The event, themed ‘Strong Beginnings, Bright Futures,’ seeks to expand access to quality, inclusive services for children from birth to six years old.
Commissioner for Policy, Education, and Research, Brighton Barugahare, highlighted that the policy marks a shift by increasing government participation beyond just training and regulation. It will introduce direct service provision in underserved areas and offer subsidies to private providers willing to operate there.
Key measures include a nationwide licensing system for ECCE centers, uniform safety and protection standards for both formal and informal setups, and mandatory management committees for accountability. Boarding facilities for this age group are strictly prohibited due to safety risks.
The policy’s timing follows the tragic Ggaba incident where four toddlers lost their lives at a daycare, fueling calls for better security in early childhood settings. It also emphasizes professionalizing caregivers and teachers while integrating aspects like gender, disability, inclusion, and ICT.
State Minister for Primary Education, Dr. Joyce Kaducu, described ECCE as vital for human capital development, fostering cognitive, psychomotor, and affective growth during critical early years. She urged parents, communities, and stakeholders to support these efforts.