Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma launched the state-specific Early Child Development (ECD) Framework and content package on Monday.
Developed in collaboration with Sesame Workshop, the package includes training materials for caregivers and frontline workers in the state.
During the launch, the chief minister expressed his appreciation for the extensive research that went into the development of the tailored ECD content over the past 18 months.
He highlighted the importance of addressing local challenges and incorporating the state’s culture, knowledge, and systems into the curriculum, ensuring it resonates with children, teachers, and parents.
“The development of a tailor-made curriculum will be instrumental in the success of the ECD program,” Sangma said.
He also emphasised that the next crucial step for the programme is its implementation, suggesting that existing institutional systems be involved to achieve its larger goals.
Sangma further noted that the ECD initiative has gained significant attention not only within India but also in Southeast Asia.
He called the program a potential game changer, a learning experience, and a model for others to follow.
The chief minister also stressed that the ECD stage is not only vital for developing a child’s cognitive and analytical skills but also for instilling values such as cleanliness, respect for the environment, patriotism, nationalism, and responsible citizenship.
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He advocated for activities that promote these values to be incorporated into the curriculum.
Sangma concluded by discussing the government’s shift from scheme-based programs to those that focus more on the needs of individual beneficiaries.
The event was attended by officials from the Social Welfare Department of Meghalaya and representatives from Sesame Workshop.
