Investing in Early Years : Evidence, Challenges, and Policy Directions for Early Childhood Education and Care

Overview & Synopsis

Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) refers to publicly regulated services that provide education and childcare for children from birth until the start of primary education. ECEC delivers wide‑ranging benefits, including improved cognitive and social development, enhanced school readiness, and increased parental labor force participation, particularly among women. In Kosovo, expanding access to quality ECEC is increasingly recognized as a critical investment in children’s long‑term learning, productivity, and well‑being, as well as in broader economic growth. Since 2021, the Government of Kosovo has taken steps to expand ECEC provision through the construction of new kindergartens, adaptation of school facilities, and the introduction of a pilot voucher program in partnership with the World Bank to support enrollment of vulnerable children. Despite these efforts, significant challenges remain. Limited availability, affordability constraints, and uneven service quality continue to restrict equitable access, particularly for disadvantaged families. Addressing these gaps is essential to ensure inclusive, high‑quality early education for all children in Kosovo.