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Early Childhood Education And Care As A Legacy For Future Generations

Quality early childhood care and education at each stage of a child's development will serve as a legacy for the future of the nation. Therefore, holistic and integrative early childhood services must be strategically implemented to ensure optimal development for every child.

During an international symposium on early childhood development and education (ECDE) supported by the Tanoto Foundation in Jakarta on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Arifah Fauzi emphasized the importance of maximizing the potential of young children, noting that such opportunities cannot be repeated. The development of Holistic Integrative Early Childhood Education (HIECE) in Indonesia has been underway since 2008.

"A national action plan for the second phase of HIECE will be formulated as a guideline for implementation that meets both national and international standards. Various studies indicate that ECDE interventions can reduce poverty and enhance productivity," stated Arifah.

Arifah outlined three flagship programs designed to support HIECE in rural areas. These include the Red and White Together Space program (continuing the initiative for women and child-friendly villages/sub-districts/cities), a Call Center, and a data system focused on women and children.

Regarding the Red and White Together Space, Arifah noted that it requires collaboration among all ministries and agencies, as well as community participation, particularly in villages. This space will provide alternative activities for children to engage in without the use of gadgets.

"Traditional games that reflect local wisdom will be made available. Children will play in groups to foster character development and instill values of Pancasila, such as cooperation, collaboration, integrity, and sportsmanship," Arifah added.

In the future, the Rumah Bersama Merah Putih initiative will receive support from final-year university students. For instance, psychology students will have the opportunity to apply their knowledge by monitoring child development or assisting victims of domestic violence. Additionally, students from the arts and culture fields can help children explore their interests in music, drama, or painting. Furthermore, there will be monthly performances at the village hall, allowing children to feel valued.

In 2025, a pilot project for Rumah Bersama Merah Putih will be launched at six locations. A soft launch is scheduled for December 22, coinciding with Mother's Day, in Jambi (Sumatra), Gorontalo (Sulawesi), South Kalimantan (Kalimantan), East Nusa Tenggara (eastern Indonesia), as well as in Tangerang and East Java (Java Island). Inge Kusuma, the Country Head of Tanoto Foundation Indonesia, emphasized the importance of providing quality care and education from an early age. The critical developmental period for children must not be overlooked, as it has long-term implications for the children, their communities, and the nation. "We must ensure that every young child reaches their fullest potential, with early childhood education serving as the key to developing human resources," she stated.

Tag: Early Childhood Education HIECE Sumatra