Dafina Zeqiri Gjergji joins UNICEF to raise awareness on early childhood education and development

Prishtina, 21 October 2025 –Dafina Zeqiri Gjergji, a singer and new mother joined UNICEF Kosovo for a visit at the kindergarten “Shkronjat” in Pristina today to highlight the importance of investing in early childhood education (ECE) and the lifelong benefits it brings to children, families, and society.

“As a new mother, I am even more aware of how important the first years of life are for a child’s growth,” said Dafina Zeqiri Gjergji. “It’s amazing to learn how the brain develops so rapidly in these early years, forming up to one million new neural connections every second. That’s why play, love, and learning from the very beginning truly shape a child’s future.”

The visit showcased the work of kindergarten “Shkronjat” as one of the institutions that prioritizes equity, play and exploration, a safe and well-equipped learning environment, engaged professional staff and close work with parents – all of which is aligned with the new ECE curriculum developed with UNICEF’s support.

“Investing in early childhood education is one of the smartest investments Kosovo can make for developing its human capital,” said Veronika Vashchenko, Head of UNICEF Kosovo. “Every dollar invested in quality early childhood development can return up to 13 dollars through improved education outcomes, health, productivity, and social inclusion.”

Early childhood education not only benefits children - it also supports women’s empowerment and economic growth. When affordable, quality childcare is available, mothers can more easily enter or return to the workforce, contributing to both family well-being and equitable growth and development.

UNICEF, together with partners, continues to support Kosovo’s efforts to ensure that every child has access to quality early learning opportunities giving all children the best possible start in life.