Jordan hosted the Regional Forum on Early Childhood Research in Crises in Arab Countries over the course of two days. The event was organized by the Arab Network for Early Childhood, in collaboration with the Moving Minds Alliance and the National Council for Family Affairs, and brought together experts, researchers, policymakers, and representatives from governmental, humanitarian, and development organizations from Jordan, across the Arab world, and internationally.
اضافة اعلان
Forum Objectives
The forum aimed to enhance knowledge and practices related to early childhood development (ECD) in crisis-affected Arab countries. It focused particularly on the strategic research model, fostering collaboration and dialogue between researchers, policymakers, and regional representatives. Additionally, it advocated for evidence-based programs and policies, and for disseminating research outcomes to other crisis-affected regions.
Opening Remarks by Dr. Mohammad Miqdadi
In his opening speech, Dr. Mohammad Miqdadi, Secretary-General of the National Council for Family Affairs, emphasized the importance of the forum for its focus on evidence-based scientific research as a key tool for developing policies, programs, and strategies. He highlighted the balance between responding to urgent humanitarian needs and protecting the future of crisis-affected communities.
Dr. Miqdadi stated that effective policies begin with accurate data, in-depth research, and well-documented field experiences. He noted that Jordan, through the Council’s work, has developed a comprehensive, integrated system based on principles of holistic care, early learning, and psychosocial health, in collaboration with national partners.
Jordan’s Strategic Role and Policy Development
He also referenced Jordan’s Economic Modernization Vision 2023–2033, under which the Council was tasked with developing the National Policy for Early Childhood Care, in coordination with the Jordanian government and the World Bank, and under the supervision of the Ministerial Committee for Women’s Empowerment, with participation from national and international institutions.
Miqdadi added that children under the age of nine represent nearly one-fifth of Jordan's population, and more than 40% of the population is under 18, including a large percentage of refugees. These figures underscore the need for inclusive, high-quality early childhood programs based on evidence, particularly for marginalized groups.
Remarks by Dr. Ghassan Issa
Dr. Ghassan Issa, General Coordinator of the Arab Network for Early Childhood, described the forum as the first of its kind in the Arab region. He explained that it continues the efforts of the Arab Network and national networks to establish the Arab Working Group on Early Childhood Research, aimed at connecting and empowering researchers, and promoting knowledge production and exchange at both regional and international levels.
Dr. Issa stated that the forum seeks to identify future research priorities, strengthen knowledge and practices, and promote regional and international networking. He also noted that Amman was chosen as the host city due to its strategic role as a regional hub for humanitarian efforts and political dialogue in the region.
Forum Sessions and Themes
The first day featured presentations on the application of the strategic research model in various Arab countries. Topics included the impact of climate crises on children, and the conditions of parents and caregivers during emergencies. Participants also reviewed regional and global initiatives and innovations related to research and knowledge production in appropriate contexts.
On the second day, sessions focused on future perspectives for data and research in early childhood development during crises. The discussions also tackled regional and global challenges related to the field.
Closing and Key Takeaways
The forum concluded by stressing the importance of a comprehensive understanding of the current landscape of early childhood development in crisis-affected Arab countries. It emphasized the need for future research to be culturally relevant, ethically sound, and capable of filling critical knowledge gaps. These steps are essential for shaping a global research agenda in the field of early childhood in emergencies.
(Petra)
