Kathmandu, Nepal – Nepal has introduced the WHO/UNICEF Care for Child Development (CCD) course, a pioneering initiative in the WHO South-East Asia Region. This program, led by Nepal’s Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP) with support from the WHO Country Office, aims to enhance early childhood development practices by equipping health workers with essential skills to promote physical, cognitive, emotional, and social growth in children aged 0-3 years through everyday interactions.
Focus Areas of the CCD Course
- Responsive caregiving: Encouraging caregivers to respond sensitively to the needs of children.
- Early learning opportunities: Creating stimulating environments for cognitive and emotional growth.
- Safety: Ensuring a secure environment for children’s development.
The course aligns with Nepal’s National Strategy for Early Childhood Development (2077–2088), emphasizing a comprehensive approach to nurturing young children.
Training and Implementation
The program completed its initial five-day training in May 2025, resulting in a national pool of 16 expert facilitators who will expand the training nationwide. Participants came from diverse professional backgrounds, including:
- Pediatricians
- Psychiatrists
- Nurses
- Public health professionals
The training combined virtual lectures with in-person workshops and practical clinical sessions at leading hospitals in Kathmandu, ensuring a robust and hands-on learning experience.
Government and WHO Commitment
Dr. Bibek Kumar Lal, Director of Family Welfare Division, emphasized the government’s dedication to investing in early years, describing the initiative as a promise to Nepal’s children for a healthier future. WHO representatives highlighted that this locally tailored strategy will facilitate the integration of early childhood development into routine health services, further strengthening Nepal’s capacity to support its young population effectively.
This milestone represents a crucial advancement in responsive caregiving and child development within Nepal’s healthcare framework.
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