Expanding Early Learning Opportunities for Suriname’s Youngest Children

Early learning and stimulation are fundamental to a child’s cognitive, social, and emotional development. However, in Suriname, more than half (52%) of three-year-olds are not enrolled in early learning programs, limiting their opportunities for growth and development. With funding support of Tubacex, UNICEF in Suriname, in partnership with Foundation SAGA, is working to close this gap by strengthening early childhood education programs and training daycare workers to enhance learning experiences for young children.

Strengthening Early Childhood Education in Suriname

Although there has been progress in Early Childhood Development (ECD) in Suriname, disparities persist. Between 2010 and 2018, the percentage of children on track in their development increased from 71% to 77%. However, key areas such as literacy and social-emotional development remain major challenges, with only 44% of children on track for literacy and 68% for social-emotional development.

Recognizing the urgent need for improved early childhood support, UNICEF has partnered with the Government of Suriname, under the coordination of the Ministry of Education, to develop the National Early Childhood Development Policy, which is set to be finalized in March 2025. This policy aims to strengthen early learning opportunities, enhance caregiver support, and improve access to quality early childhood services. 

Program: Play, Discover & Learn, Empowering Educators and Families

A key program making an impact for the youngest children is the Play, Discover & Learn program. This program not only benefits children but also strengthens the capacity of daycare workers, ensuring they can better support parents in fostering a stimulating home environment.

“Through this program, we empower daycare workers to guide and support parents in reinforcing early learning at home,” said Javier Córdoba, UNICEF Suriname Program Manager. “A collaborative approach between caregivers and educators is crucial to achieving better developmental outcomes for children.”

To date, 29 daycare centers in Paramaribo and the districts have participated in the program, with nine public daycare centers under the Ministry of Social Affairs joining the latest training cycle.

Celebrating Educators’ Achievements

Recently on February 15, 2025, UNICEF Suriname proudly marked a significant milestone with the successful completion of the latest Play, Discover & Learn training cycle. Thirteen (13) daycare teachers received their certificates after completing an intensive course focused on early childhood education. To celebrate their achievements, the educators hosted a ‘Play Day’ at the Kotomosi daycare in the vulnerable neighbourhood Geyersvlijt, where 20 enthusiastic three-year-olds engaged in educational games, music-making, and hands-on exploration.

“We are proud to see these teachers shaping the future of early childhood education, one joyful moment at a time,” said Javier Córdoba. “This program equips educators with the tools and knowledge needed to foster cognitive, emotional, and social development in children during the most critical years of their lives.” 

The Impact of Tubacex’s Support

The expansion of the ‘Play, Discover and Learn’ program to reach even more vulnerable children and communities, would not be possible without the funding support from Tubacex, which has played a vital role in ensuring that more children in Suriname receive early learning experiences they need to succeed. Their commitment to early childhood education is helping build a brighter future for the youngest members of the Surinamese community.

“Investing in early childhood education is one of the most impactful ways to shape a better future for children,” said Cordoba, “We are grateful to have received this support to expand learning opportunities for young children in Suriname.”

Looking Ahead

Over the coming 2 years, the program will continue its implementation both in Paramaribo and the districts aiming to reach 1200 children with early learning and 30 daycare centers, nationally training a total of 60 daycare workers.

With continued commitment, UNICEF and its partners are working to ensure that every child in Suriname, has access to the foundational support necessary to thrive in school and beyond. Through investments in training, caregiver support, and policy development, Suriname is taking critical steps toward improving early childhood education and giving every child the best possible start in life.