McDonald performing during the farewell hosted by ECTC

By Unumoe Esera

The  Early Childhood Training College (ECTC) at Sogi, is awaiting the results of an assessment by the World Bank, that is expected to enhance and address the challenges faced in teaching young children.

The study was conducted by a World Bank representative, Kevin McDonald in seven different communities in Savai’i and four pre-schools in Upolu.

“The results of the study will help determine outcomes whether it is worthwhile to invest in Early Childhood Education,” said McDonald.

McDonald has also conducted similar research in Vanuatu and Tonga before visiting Samoa.

The Coordinator of ECTC, Uila Leota said the visit by the World Bank was beneficial for those from the Teachers Training College as they shared ideas to help out Pre-Schools in Samoa in the future. ECTC trains teachers for early childhood education.

McDonald is an Economist for the World Bank was farewelled last Friday by the Early Childhood Training College (ECTC) in an ava ceremony, traditional entertainment performed by the ECTC and presentation of gifts.

“Thank you very much for the amazing ceremony for me. This is a farewell to Samoa and the Pacific. I’ll never forget this. These last two weeks I have learnt a lot on how to support per-schools and achieve better outcomes for Samoa,” he said.

ECTC is expected to be notified of the end result of the research and assessment by the World Bank after the report is completed and considered by the Bank.