Seychelles unveils 7th National Action Plan to transform Early Childhood Care and Education |05 July 2025

Partners in a souvenir photograph after receiving a copy of the plan

Twelve years after launching its first National Action Plan for Early Childhood Care and Education, Seychelles has introduced its most ambitious strategy yet – the 7th National Action Plan (NAP) for Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) for 2025-2027.

The plan, officially launched yesterday at the STC conference room, builds on the success of six previous plans since 2013, further cementing Seychelles’ reputation as a global leader in ECCE. 

First Lady Linda Ramkalawan received the first copy of the plan on behalf of President Wavel Ramkalawan, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to ensuring every child has access to high-quality ECCE.

In his opening address, Dr Javier Rose, chairman of the Institute of Early Childhood Development (IECD) local board, described the NAP as a comprehensive, multisectoral blueprint designed to provide equitable and accessible ECCE. He called for greater investment in ECCE, declaring, “This isn’t just a policy – it’s the foundation for a smarter, healthier future for Seychelles.”

Dr Rose highlighted the country’s progress over the past decade, including its designation as a Unesco Category 2 Institute, as proof of the transformative impact of previous action plans. 

The new National Action Plan introduces 18 innovative projects aimed at providing solutions to societal problems, improving services, expanding health care and social protection for young children, enhancing teacher training programmes, digital solutions to improve service delivery, and stronger community-based support systems for families.

Aligned with global frameworks like the Tashkent Declaration and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (particularly SDG 4.2), the plan emphasises inclusivity to ensure no child is left behind. “Early education is the bedrock of lifelong learning,” Dr Rose stressed, underscoring the importance of universal access to quality early childhood education. 

Developed under the guidance of consultant Dr André Leste and overseen by a National Committee chaired by IECD-Unesco CEO Shirley Choppy, the plan’s success will depend on robust collaboration across sectors. 

With this latest NAP, Seychelles reinforces its leadership in ECCE, setting the stage for lasting benefits that will shape future generations in Seychelles, the region and in the world. 

Contributed