A defining moment came some years back in Ethiopia, while spending time within preschool classrooms in Addis Abeba and its vicinity. During my interactions with parents, teachers, administrators including supervisors, I observed compounding issues surrounding early childhood education, in areas of daily practice, student learning outcome, access, enrollment, quality, equity and teacher training.

It was a culmination of such experiences related to program limitations, navigational barriers and challenges to existing early learning infrastructure, that gave context to the idea of adopting a PK-16 (Preschool- College) approach to early childhood education program development in Ethiopia. Through applied research, a comprehensive plan with a whole-child approach, extensive study of current programs and using indigenous knowledge as the base for solutions; we can guide practice and influence policy. Further, by supporting existing schools and creating new programs countrywide, we can break the cycle of poverty through quality early childhood education.  There is a lot of strength in Ethiopia, a surplus of local intellect, wonderful teachers that go above and beyond including parents that make ends meet with little to no income, while giving their children that eternal hope towards the future.

Join us on this momentous journey!