Take Responsibility, ECAN Charges Early Childhood Educators

 

The Early Childhood Association of Nigeria (ECAN) has charged its new members to take responsibility for nurturing and supporting early childhood growth by ensuring access to quality early childhood education.

The National President of ECAN, Prof. Babajide Abidogun, gave the charge on Wednesday during the induction of graduating students  of the Department of Educational Foundations and Guidance Counselling, Early Childhood Education Unit, Lagos State University (LASU).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that more than 100 graduating students were inducted into the association at the event during which ECAN Founder, Prof. Ajike Osanyin, gave N500,000 to the best graduating student.

Abidogun said that nurturing and supporting  early childhood education  would set children on the path of success.

“The importance of early childhood education cannot be overstated.

“It lays the foundation for lifelong learning and development, shaping the minds and future of our youngest learners.

“Joining ECAN signifies your commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and excellence in the field of early childhood education,” he said.

Abidogun said that, as members of ECAN, the inductees would have access to a wealth of resources, support and networking opportunities.

“It will also make a positive impact in the lives of children and families across Nigeria. I urge you to embrace this opportunity with enthusiasm, passion.

“Continue learning and growing as professionals, always keep the best interests of children at the forefront of your work.

“Together, we can make a difference and create a brighter future for the next generation.

“Your dedication, hard work and commitment have not gone unnoticed, and today marks a significant step forward as you transit from being students to professionals in the field of early childhood education,” he said.

Dr Ireti Odebowale, a lecturer in the Department of Educational Foundations and Guidance Counselling Psychology,  LASU,  urged  the inductees to embrace continuous learning.

Odebowale said that the inductees would need to seize every opportunity to grow in their profession and impact children.

“A well-designed induction programme not only helps new professionals to acclimate to their new environments but also fosters a sense of belonging and commitment to their profession.

“Continuous education, on the other hand, serves as the cornerstone of professional growth and development.

“In a rapidly-evolving field like Early Childhood Education, where new research, methodologies and technologies emerge constantly, staying abreast of the latest trends and best practices is imperative,” the lecturer said.

Prof. Ife Abodunrin, Head of Department of Educational Foundations and Guidance Counselling, LASU appealed to the management of the university to employ or deploy more hands in the Early Childhood Education Unit.

“We need many PhD students,’’ the professor said.

A Fellow of the association, Mr Sunday Fowowe, advised the inductees to strive to create inclusive and equitable learning environments where every child would have the opportunity to thrive regardless of his or her  background or circumstances.

“Let us be champions for diversity, equity and inclusion in early childhood education, ensuring that every child receives the support and resources he needs to reach full potential,” Fowowe said.

One of the best graduating students and an inductee,  Mrs Ngozi Emereole, said that her experience as a student in the unit had been rewarding.

Emereole said that she was glad to be inducted because she would have the licence to practice as an early childhood educator.