Defi Defi • 2 months ago

For Early Childhood (0-3 years): Towards a New National Policy

For Early Childhood (0-3 years): Towards a New National Policy

The Mauritian government is undertaking a significant reform in the field of early childhood care. On September 18, 2025, the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare announced a call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) to prepare a new national policy document for early childhood (0-3 years), along with a budgeted action plan spanning ten years (2025-2035).

Multisectoral Policy

This forthcoming document aims to establish an integrated national framework covering the health, nutrition, protection, and education of young children. The dual objectives are to ensure universal and equitable access to early childhood development services and to address the gaps identified in existing provisions. The policy will also define the roles of various stakeholders – public, private, and community – and establish a national coordination structure.

Action Plan

In addition to the strategic document, a detailed and budgeted action plan will be developed. This plan must enhance resilience and healthy development for children, promote collaboration among sectors and partners, ensure rigorous monitoring of service quality, and strengthen the capacities of childcare providers and nurseries. The regulations and legal obligations surrounding the operation of childcare centers will be highlighted to ensure uniform standards.

To date, the ministry has identified 481 Child Day Care Centres (CDCC) across the island. Of these, only 351 are registered, 72 have closed, and 45 have been forced to cease operations due to non-compliance, particularly due to a lack of permits, valid medical certificates, or recognized qualifications. This situation underscores the urgency to strengthen the system and improve quality standards.

The revision of this policy aligns with international conventions: the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child. The ministry aims to align national standards with international best practices.

Timeline and Procedures

The process will span eight and a half weeks, starting from the signing of the contract with the selected consultant. Bidders have until October 10, 2025, to submit their applications. Calls for the submission of technical and financial proposals will follow by the end of October, with the contract expected to be awarded by mid-December 2025. Implementation should begin in January 2026, with a focus extending until 2035.

This project marks a critical step in ensuring that Mauritian children, from birth, have a safe, stimulating, and protective environment, which is essential for equality of opportunity and the country’s development.

What the Reform Entails

  • Establishing a clear framework for the care and development of children aged 0 to 3 years;
  • Setting common rules for nurseries and childcare centers to protect young children;
  • Supporting families with accessible and equitable services;
  • Training and supporting staff working with children;
  • Engaging parents and the community in the education and protection of young children.

The Rationale for a New Policy

  • The first three years of life are crucial for brain development, learning, and emotional balance. However, in Mauritius, several issues persist:
  • Many nurseries and childcare facilities operate without complying with safety and health standards;
  • Of the 481 identified childcare centers, only 351 are registered. Nearly a hundred have closed or been forced to shut down;
  • Not all children have equal access to a safe, stimulating, and well-supervised environment.