Innovative Programs

Community-Based ECD Center (CBECDC) (1987)

The concept of community-based ECD center was introduced in 1987 targeting children of three to five years old. The ideation was to run the centers being managed by the community. The curriculum guidelines designed and implemented (later DOE curriculum) was followed. The lessons and daily activities were planned from the children’s cultural context and natural environment. The program focus was on care, nutrition, health, and hygiene through nature observations, rhymes and related activities, physical coordination and creativity. Children actively learned through exploration and participation while also ensuring the materials are of local sources and low costs.
Parents were encouraged to join in with children’s activities in the center. The community support played an important role in the sustainability of such ECD centers.