Early Childhood Development

Meet Ansumana, a bright 6-year-old from Kailahun District, who just reached an important milestone in his education by graduating from a ChildFund-supported Early Childhood Development (ECD) Center. But his journey is not just his own. It is part of a powerful intergenerational story that underscores the life-changing impact of ChildFund’s commitment to foundational learning.
Ansumana’s mother, Saffiatu, grew up in a small village where educational opportunities were scarce, and the prospect of pursuing higher learning seemed like an unattainable dream. However, her story took a different turn when she became a sponsored child through ChildFund. With sustained support, she gained access to quality education, essential school supplies, and mentorship that encouraged her to keep striving for success. Thanks to ChildFund’s continued assistance, Saffiatu not only completed her schooling but is now a proud university finalist, with her tuition still fully covered by the organization.

Following in his mother’s footsteps, Ansumana has been an active participant in ChildFund’s educational programs from an early age. At the ECD pre-school established by ChildFund in Segbwema, Kailahun District, he received books, school bags, and other vital learning materials designed to ensure a strong academic foundation. The structured early learning programs, combined with ChildFund’s focus on cognitive and social development, have equipped him with the skills necessary to transition seamlessly into primary school.

‘’Nothing can erase this great memory I have of ChildFund,’ Saffiatu mentioned with a grateful heart. Their impact on me and my child is unforgettable. I would like to give back to my community after my course.’
ChildFund’s commitment to foundational learning goes beyond the provision of materials. Our approach includes child-centered teaching methodologies, parental engagement programs, and investments in safe and conducive learning environments.

As Saffiatu reflects on the journey that brought her to where she is today, she is filled with gratitude for the unwavering support ChildFund has provided. Had it not been for ChildFund’s support through Ndomakeh Federation (ChildFund’s Local Partner),’’ she mentioned, ‘I really would not have guessed the outcome of my life, especially coming from a humble background where my father is late, and my mother a petty trader having me and other children to look after.’’

Saffiatu’s mother, Messie, is a member of a savings group formed by ChildFund and its partner in Kailahun District. Being a single mother of four has not been easy for Messie. “I have faced countless challenges to provide for my children and support them through school,” she recalls. When her children were on the brink of dropping out due to financial struggles, she joined the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA) in Segbwema. Through the association’s small business skills training and access to loans, Messie was able to grow her small trading business.

The generational impact is clear. What started as a sponsorship opportunity for a young girl has now blossomed into a legacy of education and opportunity for her son, and recently, her mother, Messie, and by extension her other siblings who are still in high school.

With a big smile and big dreams, Ansumana is excited to start primary school. He already knows what he wants to be—a bank manager who helps his community grow. Because of ChildFund’s strong support for early learning, Ansumana is not just dreaming about his future, he’s getting ready to make it happen.