A new model of kindergarten for a small rural community: UNICEF presents

Today UNICEF Armenia presented the cost-effective model of early childhood learning for small rural communities. The model was previously tested in eight small communities of Syunik region in 2014-2015, after which it was put into operation in the villages of Atan, Ahnidzor, Shamut and Martz in Tumanyan’s large community of Lori Region. Currently, 140 children in 12 districts in Syunik and Lori regions use these services; otherwise they could be unable to attend a kindergarten.

The event was opened by Deputy Minister of Territorial Administration and Development of the Republic of Armenia Mr. Varazdat Karapetyan, RA Deputy Minister of Education and Science David Sahakyan and UNICEF Representative in Armenia Tanya Radoschy, who highlighted the model for 3-6 years old children from the point of view of learning and development.

The model was created for small rural communities, where there are few children, there are no adequate funds for having a kindergarten and the nearest kindergarten is far away. It is based on international studies that indicate that the duration of attending a kindergarten (in terms of years) is of greater importance for the future of a child aged 3-6 than hours spent in the institution throughout the day.

The model provides not only development and learning opportunities for the children, but also provides jobs to the community and has a beneficial effect on the social situation. Minimum volumes of work, investing capital, and associated costs ensure cost-effectiveness of the model. During the first five years of modeling activity, the number of children in Tumanyan’s large community will exceed 100, and the total and direct average cost per child will be AMD 320,100 and AMD 222,500, respectively.

The project is implemented in partnership with the “Step by Step” charitable foundation and Community Finance Officers Association.

Full text in Armenian