Report Highlights Gaps in Early Childhood Development Centers Across Rwanda

The Society for Growth and Opportunity (SGO), which advocates for the well-being of children, women, and youth, says that many children in ECD centers are not receiving adequate care or early learning due to unqualified staff and a lack of proper facilities.

The findings were part of a study conducted by SGO in collaboration with the National Child Development Agency (NCDA). The research, carried out in April across five districts—Nyagatare, Burera, Nyarugenge, Kamonyi and Rutsiro—assessed ECD centers based in homes, communities and schools.

“Most caregivers lack the proper training, and many centers are not using updated learning materials,” said Félix Ndazivunnye, SGO’s project coordinator. “As a result, children miss out on quality early education.”

The report also revealed that many ECD centers are poorly equipped and not suited to the needs of children aged 0 to 6, who are the primary users.

“Many of these centers lack modern infrastructure and learning tools,” Ndazivunnye said. “Additionally, some are built far from where families live, making it difficult for parents to bring their children regularly.”

According to the study, 83% of parents walk to ECD centers, 10% use bicycles, and only 1.5% travel by car. About 47.7% of parents travel between 10 to 30 minutes, while 5.4% take up to an hour to reach the nearest center.

Faustin Macara, who heads maternal and child nutrition at NCDA, acknowledged the challenges but said the government remains committed to expanding access to quality ECD services.

“These children are growing with active minds, and they deserve proper care,” Macara said. “The government’s policy is that every child should attend an ECD center. We encourage all parents to participate in this effort.”

SGO is calling on government institutions, NGOs, and private sector partners to work together to improve ECD services nationwide.