Increased allocation to early Childhood Education elates ZANEC

THE Zambia National Education Coalition (ZANEC) has welcomed the increased allocation to early Childhood Education in the 2026 National budget from 2.5 percent in 2025 to 3 percent in 2026. Speaking during the policy forum on advocating for appropriate Early Childhood Education (ECE) Legislation, policies and structures in Lusaka, ZANEC Board Chairperson, Henry Kabwe, noted […]

THE Zambia National Education Coalition (ZANEC) has welcomed the increased allocation to early Childhood Education in the 2026 National budget from 2.5 percent in 2025 to 3 percent in 2026.

Speaking during the policy forum on advocating for appropriate Early Childhood Education (ECE) Legislation, policies and structures in Lusaka, ZANEC Board Chairperson, Henry Kabwe, noted that the increment signals growing Government attention to foundational learning and investment in the early years of a child.

Mr Kabwe observed that his institution recognises the construction of Early Childhood Education Centers under the Zambia Education Enhancement Project as a vital step towards expanding access to safe and appropriate learning spaces for young children.

Mr Kabwe however stated that there are some challenges that seem to limit the reach and quality of Early Child Education such as, inadequate and unsustainable public financing, limited Implementation of inclusive education, inequitable access to quality ECE services and weak Coordination among sectors.

And UNICEF Zambia’s Early Childhood Development Education Specialist, Zewelanji Serpell stated that the increase in the budget allocation from the current three percent of the education budget to at least 10 percent is critical to expanding access and improving the quality of early childhood education.