Paperman Media। Bhubaneswar, November 11
The Odisha Government on Tuesday inaugurated a two-day National ECCE & Education Conclave in Bhubaneswar to strengthen Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) and promote holistic development of children aged 0–6 years.
Organised by the Department of Women and Child Development in collaboration with Rocket Learning at LYFE Hotels, the conclave brings together policymakers, experts, government officials and development partners to deliberate on nutrition, healthcare, early stimulation and play-based learning.
Commissioner-cum-Secretary of W&CD Department Dr. Mrinalini Darswal presented Odisha's journey in strengthening ECCE, while Director Monisha Banerjee delivered the welcome address. In her keynote address, renowned paediatrician and former WHO Deputy Director Dr. Soumya Swaminathan emphasised that the first six years are crucial for lifelong health, learning and development. Former NITI Aayog Member Dr. V.K. Paul highlighted the need to empower Anganwadi workers and strengthen early childhood development.
The department unveiled three initiatives, including digital IEC materials for children aged 0–6 years, a video on responsive parenting and Supalana, Rocket Learning's birth-to-three programme.
The first day featured three panel discussions focusing on healthcare and nutrition during the first three years, play-based learning and school readiness for children aged 3–6 years, and partnerships for early childhood development.
Experts from government institutions, healthcare organisations and development agencies shared their experiences and recommendations.
The conclave, concluding on November 12, aims to develop a collaborative roadmap for strengthening early childhood development through interdepartmental coordination, quality Anganwadi services, parental participation and effective community engagement.
