By Dr Nkiru Onuorah
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!In a powerful step towards reshaping the landscape of early childhood education in Enugu State, a five-day training workshop on Early Childhood Care and Development Education (ECCDE) pedagogy and the Reggio Emilia Approach was held at Ekulu Primary School, Enugu, from Monday, July 21 to Friday, July 25, 2025.
The workshop, organized under the auspices of the Enugu State Universal Basic Education Board (ENSUBEB), in collaboration with Universal Basic Education Board (UBEC) brought together ECCDE teachers from across the state at three centres of the three Senatorial zones of Enugu State for an intensive, hands-on capacity-building programme aimed at transforming classroom practices, nurturing child-centred learning environments, and aligning with global best practices in early years education.
The training focused on two key areas: foundational pedagogical principles and the Reggio Emilia Approach—an internationally acclaimed educational philosophy that emphasizes child-led learning, creativity, exploration, and the environment as the “third teacher.”
Resource persons, including ECCDE experts and certified Reggio Emilia trainers, guided participants through interactive sessions, practical demonstrations, and reflective exercises. Topics ranged from play-based learning, documentation and observation, learning through projects, to creating enriched classroom environments that spark curiosity and collaboration.
In his opening remarks, the Executive Chairman of ENSUBEB, AssociateProfessorHyginusBankoOkibe] emphasized the importance of investing in early childhood educators, noting that “the quality of education a child receives in their early years lays the foundation for lifelong learning. This training empowers our teachers to become facilitators of discovery and imagination.”
Participants expressed enthusiasm for the new insights gained. “The training has completely changed my perspective on teaching young children,” said Mrs. Ebere Okeke , one of the attendees. “I now understand the value of allowing children to express themselves, explore their interests, and construct their own learning.”
Another major highlight of the workshop was the emphasis on using local materials to design stimulating learning spaces, proving that creativity and innovation can thrive even in resource-limited settings.
As Enugu State continues its journey toward smart green schools and inclusive quality education, workshops like this represent a vital step in ensuring teachers are equipped, supported, and inspired to meet the evolving needs of 21st-century learners.
With renewed commitment and fresh strategies, ECCDE teachers are now better prepared to nurture a generation of confident, curious, and capable young learners—setting the stage for brighter futures across the state.