The First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has emphasized that early childhood development should be a top priority for women leaders, as it can lead to transformative effects on individuals and society. She made this statement at a high-level Forum of Women Leaders in Bujumbura, Burundi, which focused on the theme, “Investing in Early Childhood to Build Human Capital Throughout Life.”
A statement from Busola Kukoyi, the Media Aide to the First Lady, outlined her key points.
Sen. Tinubu stressed that prioritizing early childhood education is crucial for shaping a child’s future and fostering a strong society, noting that early education plays a vital role in ensuring a promising future for both individuals and the nation.
Joining other First Ladies at the forum, Mrs. Tinubu highlighted the significant role women play in nurturing children, particularly in their formative years. She pointed out that this early stage is critical in determining a child’s life trajectory.
“Research has consistently shown that the early years, especially from birth to age eight, are essential for a child’s cognitive, physical, and emotional development. These foundational years influence not only education but also long-term social, economic, and emotional well-being. Early childhood development is key to sustainable development and national prosperity,” she stated.
She also remarked that as First Ladies, they possess a unique influence and bear the responsibility of shaping policies that will affect future generations.
During the opening ceremony, Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye underscored the importance of family in child outcomes and called on both parents to take their roles seriously. He emphasized that cultural values are essential for successful development, advocating for strong relationships between couples as vital for raising well-rounded children.
Other speakers at the forum, including the First Ladies of Slovenia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gambia, Turkey, and representatives from the UN and UNICEF, highlighted the importance of school feeding programs as an incentive for early school attendance, particularly in Africa. They also discussed the need to promote peace in the region to enhance early childhood education as a pathway to a brighter future.
