Young children to benefit from ICDS Centers’ transformation into learning hubs

Srinagar, July 23: In a move to enhance early childhood education, the government is converting Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) centres into learning centres and play schools for children aged between 3 and 6 years.
According to the Director of ICDS Rubina Kausar, all necessary arrangements have been made, and these centres will soon be equipped with basic and essential facilities to foster a conducive learning environment.
The initiative aims to provide children with at least three hours of daily structured learning activities. This transformation is part of the government’s broader strategy to ensure that children receive quality early education, which is important for their cognitive and social development. To achieve this, staff at these centers have been directed to fully implement the new plan and ensure the centers are well-equipped with modern technology, including LEDs.
“We have made all the arrangements to convert ICDS centres into fully functional learning centres. Our goal is to provide a stimulating and nurturing environment for children in their formative years,” she said. In addition to the physical upgrades, the government also focuses on educational outcomes, she said.
The government’s plan has been met with widespread approval from the public. Many parents and educators have hailed this move as a positive step towards improving early childhood education. They believe that transforming ICDS centres into learning hubs will provide young children with a strong foundation for future academic success. The stress on technology and structured learning is expected better to prepare children for the transition to formal schooling.
Experts have suggested that children should only be admitted to school after obtaining a grade card from the concerned ICDS centres. This approach would incentivize attendance and participation, ensuring that children benefit fully from the programs offered. Many parents send their children to school at an early age, causing government schemes to become defunct.
This initiative is seen as a progressive step towards nurturing the next generation and providing them with the tools they need to succeed. In addition to the efforts to improve the ICDS centres and make its schemes vibrant, the government should also consider increasing the honorarium for ICDS staff, given the current situation.