Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure

The Gaffat Community Preschool Project represents the first application of the Envision framework in Africa

Early Childhood Education Ethiopia

Early Childhood Education Ethiopia is a nonprofit organization that works to ensure that every child, regardless of location or background, has access to quality early learning. While pre-primary enrollment in Ethiopia has slightly improved, less than 50% of age eligible children attend preschool, leaving millions without the critical foundation needed for future success, particularly in rural and marginalized communities. We promote culturally relevant early childhood education that draws on indigenous knowledge, generational wisdom, and community strengths to create meaningful learning experiences. By partnering with families, educators, and communities, we are helping bridge the access gap and build a more equitable future for Ethiopia’s youngest citizens.

 Projects & Programs

140 Children Begin their journey with ECEE

Negussay Ayele Preschool Program is in full bloom in Debre Tabor, Ethiopia. On a daily basis children’s laughter, joy, confidence and engagement in their learning continues to inspire us. We play to play and to learn.

500 Children at Shimbit Outdoor Classroom 

From rolling tires to spirited soccer matches and traditional Gebeta games, this space demonstrates how outdoor play becomes a powerful learning area for children.

Two Meals a Day

Early Childhood Education Ethiopia recognizes the critical role of nutrition in promoting children’s care, education, and development, and actively addresses this by providing two nutritious hot meals daily for 140 children. Our meal program offers a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, demonstrating our commitment to not only enhancing children’s well-being but also tackling food insecurity within preschool programs across the region. Join us in this essential mission to ensure that every child receives the nourishment they need to thrive and succeed.

Current Events and Updates

Welcoming Vistors

ECEE warmly welcomes visitors throughout the week. The Negussay Ayele Center has drawn local government officials, regional education representatives, mayors, staff from local colleges and universities, public health officers, and many more. We are encouraged by their eagerness to engage with ECEE, supporting and collaborating on various projects.

Parent and Community Engagement

We consistently engage with our parents, advisory board, and community representatives to foster meaningful dialogue, gather valuable insights, share best practices, and identify areas for improvement, ensuring that every parent feels acknowledged and valued.

Support our Award Winning work

We create sustainable early learning programs in resource-neglected areas that support cognitive, emotional, physical, and social development. By integrating indigenous education and local cultural practices, we ensure learning is relevant and meaningful. Our curriculum emphasizes play, fostering exploration and creativity, while incorporating Social Emotional Learning principles to help children build resilience, empathy, and confidence.

Become a monthly donor and join a movement that is changing the direction of early childhood education in rural Ethiopia.

Early Childhood Education Ethiopia is a 501 (c) (3) organization with federal tax ID number (EIN) 84-4243275