Early childhood development in Africa, as in the rest of the world, is extremely important. It is during the first years of life that the key elements of the brain take form. Investments in early childhood education, as well as health services and nutrition, can therefore have a major impact on the subsequent stages of human development. With support from the Hilton Foundation, FINCA is addressing this challenge in refugee communities in Uganda.

The Heckman Curve

Many studies in middle- and high-income countries have shown that investing in early childhood development (ECD) advances social development, workforce productivity and poverty reduction. Most notably, research by Nobel Prize Winner Professor James Heckman provides a compelling theoretical basis for these investments. While evidence is slim, if it works in higher income countries, there is a compelling argument that such investments also will lead to better educational outcomes in the rest of the world.

The Need for Early Childhood Education in Africa

In Uganda, up to three million children aged three to five lack access to early childhood education. And in some places where early childhood education programs do exist, pupil-to-classroom ratio can be as high as 159:1. With classes that large, even the most attentive students can have trouble learning.

To overcome this challenge, FINCA Uganda is delivering a program that employs a two-generational approach, providing benefits both to children and to their caregivers. Key activities of FINCA’s program include capacity building for early childhood development centers and financial support for parents. And by partnering with other local organizations, FINCA Uganda is creating a sustainable, community-led ECD model that can flourish beyond the lifespan of the grant.

FINCA’s initiative is providing 2,300 refugee children with quality education and care, while creating sustainable economic opportunities for their families. Our goal is to break the cycle of poverty and build resilient, thriving communities.

It is clear that quality early childhood development in Africa can support lifelong learning, health, emotional well-being, and long-term productivity. Ultimately, programs like FINCA’s will children succeed in school and beyond.

This article first appeared on finca.org.