Early childhood and sustainable development: towards a comprehensive care system

The aim of the Joint Programme (JP) is to support the Argentine Government in the implementation of the National Early Childhood Strategy (ENPI in Spanish), focusing on strengthening childcare services at national and subnational levels. It is expected to reduce the inequality gaps among the 5,2 million children (0 - 6 years old) , of which 2,7 million are poor, by increasing the investment for the National Early Childhood Strategy (ENPI) from the current 0.26% and identifying consolidated investment gaps at national and provincial levels. The target population in this JP is aged 0 to 6 years. The JP’s emphasis will be on girls and boys from the lowest income deciles, particularly those with indigenous origins and those with disabilities, who experience multiple factors of exclusion and discrimination. As a result, four provinces will have a Provincial Early Childhood Strategy (EPPI) designed and under implementation, reaching up to 1,3 mill of vulnerable children, including those from indigenous populations. The model will be prepared for scaling-up to all 24 provinces. The JP will also develop innovative instruments using new technologies: a) public care digital platforms to enhance access to the care system; b) Impact Investment Fund, supported by an impact investment platform; and c) inter-cultural education and culturally-centred care and education services for rural indigenous women and children. Also, a strategy will be put in place to improve the working conditions of early childhood care workers through supporting their professionalization, transition to formal employment, and organization in the initial four provinces. Finally, big data and other analytical tools will be used for monitoring and evaluation.

Project symbol

ARG/19/50/UND

Admin unit

CO-Buenos Aires

Start date

01/03/2020

End date

28/02/2022

Total allocation

431424

Total expenditure

Status

Closed

424843

Development Partners

Multi Partner Trust Fund Office, UNDP

Country/Countries

Argentina

Outcomes

Outcome 6: Gender equality and equal opportunities and treatment for all in the world of work