Foundations Together:

Strengthening Early Childhood Education Across Fiji

As Fiji recently wrapped up its annual Early Childhood Education (ECE) Week celebrations, Childhood Education International (CE International) is excited to highlight educators and institutions there working every day to strengthen opportunities for young children and their families.

Images shared are from the Nausori Education District, where students and teachers joined in celebrations to honor the early childhood community in Fiji. Photo credits: Kogagi Production; https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1ExQtvKkVV/

This past May, CE International began Yavu Duavata – “Foundations Together” –  a 14-month project that explores the role of hybrid, technology-enabled delivery approaches to address the challenges related to delivering and sustaining equitable, high-quality teacher professional development for ECE teachers across Fiji, with a special focus on those in remote, rural, and maritime communities. Supported by the World Bank, the project is being implemented in partnership with Fiji National University (FNU) and the Fiji Early Childhood Teachers’ Association (FECTA), and in close collaboration with the Fiji Ministry of Education. This project builds upon the established leadership and expertise of the two organizations and Fiji’s national commitment to shaping the future of early childhood education in Fiji and the Pacific region.

This year’s ECE Week theme – “Together for Every First Step: Early Learning, Endless Possibilities” – beautifully reflected the spirit of the work taking place across the country.

Throughout the week, early childhood centres were filled with activities celebrating children’s learning and development. Teachers, children, and families came together for storytelling, music, cultural performances, and creative arts that highlighted Fiji’s rich traditions. Community events strengthened partnerships between homes and early learning centres, while educators participated in professional discussions focused on quality, child-centred teaching, and learning.

These celebrations also shined a bright light on the extraordinary people behind early childhood education.

Teachers shared how professional networks like FECTA had helped them feel part of a broader community of practice – one where they exchanged ideas, built confidence, and continually strengthened their ability to support young children’s learning and wellbeing. For many educators, these connections are not simply professional; they are a source of encouragement, collaboration, and inspiration.

This week highlighted the creativity, commitment, and agency of ECE teachers – particularly those serving remote and underserved communities. Through adapting local resources, leveraging community support, and innovation, they ensure every child has access to quality early learning experiences. ECE Week provided an important opportunity to recognize their dedication and the lasting difference they make for children, families, and communities every day.

At CE International, we believe lasting educational change happens through collaboration and co-creation with trusted local partners who understand their communities and lead with local knowledge. Yavu Duavata reflects that commitment by combining global expertise with the leadership, experience, and vision of Fiji’s early childhood professionals.

As the celebrations conclude, we extend our sincere congratulations and thanks to the teachers, teacher educators, families, community leaders, FECTA, FNU, and the Ministry of Education for the work they do to ensure every child’s first steps are filled with opportunity, care, and endless possibilities.

About Yavu Duavata

Yavu Duavata – Foundations Together – captures the vision of this initiative: strengthening early childhood education through learning that is rooted in place, culture, and community while connecting people, knowledge, and technology. Yavu speaks to the foundations that support children’s learning and development, while Duavata reflects the spirit of unity and shared responsibility. The name symbolizes the integration of diverse learning approaches, bringing together educators, partners, and communities in a collective effort to enhance quality early childhood education across Fiji.