Life is a narrative where the start establishes the mood, aptly describes the formative years of childhood, which are the crucial phase in a child's growth. To achieve their full potential, children need adequate healthcare and nutrition, safety from harm, a sense of security, opportunities for high-quality early education and attentive caregiving.
All these components are vital for nourishing developing minds and aiding growing bodies for academic success, social-emotional growth and long-term economic productivity. Consequently, investing in early childhood development is a smart choice that fosters healthier, more educated people.
United Nations Children's Fund (Unicef) states that “the nature of a child's early experiences significantly impacts their brain development, creating either robust or fragile bases for learning, health and behaviour over a lifetime.”
Significantly, an increasing number of nations have recognised the importance of giving children the best possible start in life by investing in early childhood development. The Sultanate of Oman exemplifies this growing trend, prioritising early childhood care and education in its national agenda.
The Omani government has been promoting awareness through a campaign on early childhood development aimed at parents, educators and decision-makers.
The nation’s childhood care plan encompasses multiple sectors focused on child protection, health and early childhood development. This plan is underscored by the Omani Child Law of 2014 and has received Unicef’s approval for the period 2026–2030.
Oman’s new Country Programme Document (CPD) was presented to the Second Regular Session of Unicef’s Executive Board in New York, marking the conclusion of the current programme launched in 2022. The CPD strategy was approved unanimously.
Aligned with Oman Vision 2040, the Five-Year Development Plan, the Sustainable Development Goals and international conventions, the new multi-sectoral strategy focuses on key opportunities and fostering a supportive environment throughout a child’s life.
As reported by the state agency ONA, the programme focuses on two main life stages: early childhood and adolescence. The first stage aims to expand access to quality early learning and services, while the second emphasises strengthening opportunities for education, skills development and meaningful participation.
Social inclusion and child protection are cross-cutting themes that ensure equitable access to services and safety from harm for the most vulnerable children throughout their lives.
“Only through sustained investment in policies, programmes and peace can we create safe, supportive and nurturing environments for children,” said Dr Laila bint Ahmed al Najjar, Minister of Social Development, while virtually participating in the Unicef Board meeting.
Oman is a leading country in early childhood development, thriving in policies and services. It was one of the initial nations to ratify the Convention on the Rights of the Child and took prompt measures to implement laws safeguarding children's rights.
The implementation of the Child Law in 2014 clearly showcased this dedication. This was additionally strengthened by the 2023 School Education Law, which confirmed children's entitlement to early education, and the 2023 Social Protection Law, which created a coordinated system of social benefits and insurance.
These regulations integrate global best practices in providing benefits, including for children and individuals with disabilities.
Oman has achieved high standings in indicators of child development, universal vaccination and inclusive education that include every child without exception. The nation persists in showcasing its dedication via innovative strategies, including labour regulations and family-oriented policies that offer parents sufficient time to tend to their children in their formative years.
It is undeniable that Oman serves as a significant advocate for children in the area, backing efforts that enhance health, education and child safety, particularly in times of humanitarian emergencies.
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