The partnership between the BJC Big C Foundation and UNICEF aims to ensure every child in Thailand has a quality start in life and the opportunity to learn and develop to their full potential in safe and nurturing environments within families, schools, and communities.
"The early childhood period, spanning from birth to age 6, plays a pivotal role in shaping a child's future trajectory. It is a time of laying the foundation for the development of children's physical, social, emotional and cognitive skills as well as lifelong learning. The problem of inequality in early childhood development is complex and represents a fundamental challenge in Thai society, as well as in many other countries worldwide. The Foundation recognizes the importance of early childhood development (ECD). Many young children still face many challenges, such as children from poor families and those whose parents lack education, children living in rural and marginal areas, as well as children with disabilities. The Foundation believes that investment in early childhood development is extremely important and this partnership with UNICEF signifies our commitment to driving significant progress in the development of children at this age in Thailand," said Thapanee Techajaroenvikul, Committee, Secretary and Treasurer of the Foundation.
"The signing of the MOU between the Foundation and UNICEF marks the inception of our collaboration, aimed at advancing the cause of quality ECD comprehensively and equitably across Thailand. To bolster UNICEF's efforts in supporting ECD initiatives, benefiting young children and families throughout the nation, to ensuring that even the most vulnerable children can flourish and realize their utmost potential in the years to come", she added.
The latest results from the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey - the largest survey on women and children in Thailand - shows that only 67% of children who are not attending early childhood education programme are developmentally on track, while those who do are 81% developmentally on track. With the standard tool that is used globally to measure SDG indicator, a child is assessed is three domains: learning, psychosocial well-being, and health. Being devellopmentally on track means the chid has good developmental progress that would allow them to be ready for school and reach their full potential.
"Investing in Early Childhood Development is one of the best investments that can be made, transforming not only children's lives but Thailand's very future. Although progress has been made in providing children over the age of three with some form of early education, there remains a significant gap in the availability, affordability, and quality of childcare services for those under three. This contributes to poorer outcomes later in life, with six out of ten primary school students struggling to read by grade 2 or 3, reading performance in Thailand declining and scores in math and science at lower secondary level stagnant. We are deeply grateful to BJC Foundation for investing in a brighter future for children." said Kyungsun Kim, UNICEF Representative for Thailand.
"Solving issues in early childhood development isn't simple; it requires policy support from both the government and private sectors, along with modern knowledge and an understanding of parents' perspectives. The BJC Big C Foundation aims to actively advance the cause of early childhood development. We believe that everyone in society wants to see Thailand progress. We are ready to provide opportunities and invite all sectors to join in supporting early childhood development. This is to ensure that every child in Thailand has a quality start in life and opportunities to grow up to their full potential, pursue their dreams and grow into happy and fulfilled adults who contribute positively to the society. Supporting early childhood is the crucial part of the development of Thailand," concluded Aswin.
Source: BJC Big C Group
