The early years are crucial for a child's neural and cognitive development. Although Oman has made noteworthy socioeconomic progress, there is still potential for improvement in early childhood development (ECD). Oman’s most recent Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) revealed that less than one-third of children aged 3 to 4 years have access to early childhood education.[1] In response, the World Health Organization (WHO), in collaboration with the Omani government and other national stakeholders, has integrated ECD into Oman's health strategy. This has led to the establishment of multi-sectoral partnerships focused on providing high-quality, inclusive ECD services across the country. These initiatives are poised to make meaningful improvements in child health, well-being, and educational outcomes. The long-term impact of these developments will be closely monitored and evaluated in the coming years. Early Childhood Development (ECD) profoundly impacts all Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially Goals 1 through 6. Goal 4, which focuses on ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all, is particularly relevant. Within this goal, Target 4.2 emphasizes the transformative potential of ECD on individuals, communities, and societies at large.

How did Oman, with the support of WHO, achieve this?

As explained by Dr Jean Jabbour, the WHO Representative in Oman, "investing in early child development is investing in the future of societies. Providing children with a strong foundation during the critical early years can unlock their full potential and promote a healthier and more prosperous world for all.” Oman, with its history of progressive health policies, including the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (1992), the Child Protection Law (2014), and the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and Syphilis (2022), has recognized the significant benefits of integrating ECD into government policy for long-lasting and broad improvements.

Oman's approach to integrating ECD into its national health strategy involved a collaborative partnership with WHO. This collaboration leveraged established health initiatives, such as the Expanded Programme on Immunization and various maternity and childcare programs, using them as foundational platforms to embed ECD practices. Recognizing the need for a holistic approach, the partnership extended beyond the traditional boundaries of the health sector. It embraced a multi-sectoral strategy, uniting efforts across governmental and non-governmental sectors, healthcare, and educational institutions. This convergence of diverse expertise and perspectives created a dynamic alliance.

A significant achievement of this collaborative effort was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in July 2022 between Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), renowned for its developmental care expertise, and WHO Oman. This MOU was a commitment to enhancing capacities, advancing research, and implementing evidence-based training. 

“Arab countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region have made progress in education and health, but face challenges in poor learning outcomes. The inadequacy of early human development is a key factor contributing to this issue. The Nurturing Care Framework, introduced by WHO, UNICEF, and the World Bank, offers a plan of action to ensure every child receives nurturing care. Integrating the Care for Child Development (CCD) program into the health system, particularly at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital in Oman, a leader in research, development and training, is seen as an opportunity to scale up and sustain CCD efforts. Collaboration with local NGOs, such as Al Jisr Foundation, is sought to ensure sustainability and multisectoral integration.”

- Dr Watfa Al Maamari, Senior Consultant Developmental Paediatrician at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital (SQUH)

In October 2022, SQU took a significant step forward, supported by the WHO's Regional Office and WHO-Oman, by hosting an innovative training course designed for Master Trainers. This course, which skillfully combined theoretical knowledge with practical application, equipped 22 professionals from diverse healthcare and educational sectors to nurture holistic child development. The ambition of the SQU Child Development Unit to become a WHO Collaborating Centre is a testament to the university's deep commitment to this cause.

^{Care for child development course adaptation workshop in June 2023.}
Photo credit: WHO Oman

The Al-Jisr Foundation, having previously partnered with WHO-Oman in 2021, played a pivotal role in this initiative. They skillfully adapted the training materials to align with the unique cultural and social context of Oman and efficiently managed the logistics for the nationwide roll-out of the training. In June 2023, this collaboration led to a specialized workshop for 15 master trainers, laying a solid foundation for a series of more extensive training sessions set to occur in 2024.

"As a philanthropic foundation, we recognize our pivotal role as catalysts for positive change. Through strategic partnerships with esteemed institutions like Sultan Qaboos University Hospital and WHO, we combine our resources, expertise, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of families, ensuring the best outcomes for our youngest generation. Together, we lay the foundation for a brighter future, where evidence-based early childhood development practices seamlessly integrate into the fabric of our society."

- Ms Dina Al Khalili, General Manager at Al Jisr Foundation

February 2023 marked a pivotal moment for ECD in Oman as Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), in collaboration with WHO Oman and the Al-Jisr Foundation, unveiled a comprehensive strategic roadmap to expand ECD programs across the country. This roadmap, a product of collaborative efforts between SQU and WHO experts, garnered official recognition during an event attended by prominent figures including Dr Al Mahrezi, Director of SQU Hospital, H.E. Dr. Jean Jabbour, and representatives from the Al-Jisr Foundation. A notable meeting with H.E. Dr. Laila bint Ahmed al Najjar, the Minister of Social Development, further highlighted the depth and potential of future collaborations in this domain.

August 2023 saw Oman's ECD strategy receiving international recognition at the inaugural parent support conference for the Eastern Mediterranean, Middle East, and North Africa regions.[2] This event brought together national and regional foundations and associations, reinforcing a unified commitment to the ECD agenda. 

Recognizing the scarcity of culturally appropriate and accessible child development programs in the Middle East, WHO is actively involved in adapting and validating practical ECD programs for the region. Current initiatives include conducting Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) baseline studies among women of childbearing age, translating the Global Scales for Early Development into Arabic, and customizing the WHO Care for Child Development (CCD) kit for the Omani context. 

Oman's unwavering commitment to high-quality early childhood education, a key factor in its rise in the Global Human Development Index, continues to gain momentum. The nation is proactively integrating ECD modules into medical and nursing curricula, investing in further research, and enhancing community awareness about ECD services. Ongoing feasibility studies for the national scaling of the ECD program and the planned training sessions for Master Trainers in 2024 reflect a nation committed to nurturing its future generations.