Damascus, May 17 (SANA) The Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor and the Syrian Commission for Family Affairs and Population, in cooperation with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), launched on Sunday the National Early Childhood Development Strategy for Syria (2026–2030) during a ceremony held at Dama Rose Hotel in Damascus.
The ceremony included a presentation introducing the strategy, a documentary film on childhood in Syria, and a dialogue session in which participants stressed the importance of implementing clear and well-studied policies to protect children, particularly children with disabilities, and to strengthen cooperation among relevant public and private sector institutions, civil society organizations, and local communities.
The strategy targets children up to the age of eight through comprehensive interventions based on the unification of efforts between governmental and non-governmental entities. It is built on principles of access, equity and inclusiveness—especially for children with disabilities—along with quality, sustainability, evidence-based decision-making, and family empowerment
Investment in Human Capital
Speaking at the event, Behjat Hajar, representative of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor, said the strategy reflects Syria’s commitment to investing in human capital from early childhood, which forms the foundation for cognitive, psychological, social and physical development.
He noted that 5.5% of children under five suffer from acute malnutrition, while 17.3% experience stunting, with school dropout rates in some provinces exceeding 30%.
He added that the strategy represents a step towards building a more equitable and prosperous future for children, ensuring a safe, educated childhood with full rights and opportunities.
He further explained that the strategy includes a clear implementation plan with measurable indicators and coordination mechanisms across sectors, stressing that early childhood investment covers nutrition, health, protection and education, while also promoting initiative, participation, freedom of expression and acceptance of diversity among children.
Urgent Necessity and Collective Commitment
For her part, Zainab Adam, Deputy Representative of UNICEF in Syria, stressed that early childhood development and education are not optional but an urgent necessity to ensure every child has the opportunity to survive and learn.
She said the approach integrates nutrition, health, early education, social protection, water and sanitation, as well as family and community support.
Adam added that the launch of the strategy represents a collective commitment to translating this framework into tangible results for children in Syria, particularly the most vulnerable and children with disabilities.
The First 1,000 Days of Child’s Life Project
Meanwhile, Marayhan Kalash, Director of the Regional Centre for Early Childhood Development at the Ministry of Education, said work is underway on the “First 1,000 Days of a Child’s Life” project in partnership with the Ministry of Social Affairs and several organizations, noting that this stage is fundamental to child development.
She said the center began in 2024 preparing a dedicated guide for the initiative, focusing on brain development in early childhood, responsive care, and creating a supportive learning environment.
She added that the project also includes development of nursery guidelines, formation and training of a national team, and coordination with the Ministry of Health in delivering vaccinations and essential healthcare services.
Evidence-Based National Strategy
In a statement to SANA, Heifa Ismail, Head of the Syrian Commission for Family Affairs and Population, said the strategy is the result of cooperation between the Ministry of Social Affairs, the Commission, UNICEF, relevant ministries, NGOs and local communities.
She explained that it is based on studies and analyses of the current situation and represents a national framework binding on all relevant parties. It focuses on family empowerment, capacity-building for caregivers, legislative development related to early childhood, and strengthening community partnership to ensure effective investment in children and sustainable development.
Long-Term National Vision
Heitham Saltaji, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Child Rights Foundation, said the preparation of the strategy took considerable time and involved specialized teams, given its importance in shaping the country’s future and recognizing children as a cornerstone of societal development.
The Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor continues to develop strategic plans across its sectors, including its national strategy (2026–2028), launched on March 8, aimed at ensuring equitable access to social services.
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