Analysis of the challenges hindering implementation of the National Policy for integrated early chilhood care and development in the pre-schools in Mokhotlong

Abstract

Education is a fundamental human right that is encapsulated in the Constitution of Lesotho. This right can be fully enjoyed if children are given the opportunity to attend school at an age. The challenges that hinder children to enjoy this right at their early years of schooling serve as a barrier that impedes them to realise their full potentials in life. Early childhood education enables children to have a positive attitude towards schooling. The main purpose of this study was to uncover the challenges that hinder the implementation of the National Policy for Integrated Early Childhood Care and Development in pre-schools in the rural areas of the Mokhotlong district in Lesotho. This study adopted a qualitative research approach. Questionnaires and interviews were used to collect data. The findings of this study revealed that some of the challenges that hinder the implementation of this policy in the rural areas of the country include shortage of trained teachers, poor infrastructure, lack of parental involvement and lack of supervision. Therefore, it is recommended that the government should ensure that there is adequate funding prior to the implementation of educational policies. Provision of adequate infrastructure should also be taken into consideration to enable smooth implementation of this policy