Early childhood development in Africa - Can we do more for less? A look at the impact and implications of preschools in Cape Verde and Guinea

The study examines the preschool programs - the predominant model found in the two countries - of early childhood care, and development (ECCD), in the comparatively wealthy country (by African standards) of Cape Verde, and the very poor country, Guinea. Its purpose is to build a knowledge base about the status of ECCD in West Africa, to identify the building blocks of affordable, and effective preschool, or ECCD programs within an African context, and, to better understand the role that governments, and donors can play to support ECCD initiatives. The study develops a profile of the preschool/ECCD sector, explores the factors determining preschool enrollment, analyzes the influence of preschool on child development, identifies characteristics, and programs that are most effective in promoting child development, and, discusses the policy implications of these programs. It is suggested that providing preschool services can have an equalizing effect on cognitive development, compensating for disadvantaged backgrounds. And, as for costs, short, focused, reliable, and contextual training, can be more efficient - and less costly - than most available formal programs. Community-based programs appear promising, partly because of parental involvement, and financing, but also because of the proximity of the locally-resident teacher, able to spend more time at school. Moreover, the Government can play a critical role in supporting ECCD programs, both through the provision of government services, and policy formulation, towards improving quality of, and equity in education.