Minister of Health Dr. Mekdes Daba held discussions with Dr. Kebede Worku, CEO of the African Center for Early Childhood Development (ECD), and other leaders to strengthen ECD programs in Ethiopia and expand collaborative efforts.
During the discussion, the center presented its technical assistance, capacity building activities, and plans to expand successful experiences to other regions.

Dr. Mekdes Daba stated that early childhood development is fundamental to building healthy, competent, and productive citizens, and stressed the importance of working together to expand the program to all regions, implement it in coordination with the Health Extension Program, and strengthen parental awareness.

The two institutions agreed to jointly develop a digital monitoring system and dashboard to monitor the performance of ECD programs and strengthen data-based decision-making.
The center\'s CEO, Dr. Kebede Worku, stated that the center will strengthen its support to improve the accessibility and quality of ECD services in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, regional health offices, and partner institutions.
Dr. Meseret Zelalem, Deputy CEO, Chief of Programs and Research Officer of the Center, stated that investment in the ECD sector is the foundation for the country\'s future growth and competitiveness.