The Hon. (Mrs.) Saroja Savithri Paulraj - Minister of Women and Child Affairs

¶ 01 Hon. Speaker, the answers are as follows:

¶ 02 (a) (i) 19,099 (as at 31.03.2024) (ii) 17,152 (as at 31.03.2024 — according to information obtained from all Provincial Pre-school Units/Authorities) (iii) No. (iv) Yes.

¶ 03 With the approval of the National Committee on Early Childhood Development, the National Secretariat for Early Childhood Development has introduced National Standards for Early Childhood Development Centres. A handbook on these Standards has also been issued by the National Secretariat. I table this handbook.

¶ 04 Under five domains, 20 detailed standards are included, which can be summarized as follows: I. A safe, clean and environmentally risk-free location. II. An environment that supports optimal child development. III. A safe and adequately spacious building equipped with facilities necessary for the learning and development of all children. IV. An internal environment suited to the developmental and learning needs of children. V. Teaching staff possessing required professional and educational qualifications. VI. Other staff categories such as assistants and cleaners who are trustworthy and of good character. VII. For every 20 children, there should be one qualified teacher and supporting staff.

¶ 05 The domains and number of standards are: - Physical Environment - Health and Safety Practices - Staff Competence - Learning Environment - Organization and Management

¶ 06 Total: 20 standards.

¶ 07 (b) (i) Yes. (ii) Under the Thirteenth Amendment, the power of registration, management and monitoring of Early Childhood Development Centres has been devolved to Provincial Councils. Accordingly, registration and monitoring are carried out by Provincial Pre-school Authorities/Units established under relevant Statutes. In addition, Early Childhood Development Officers attached to District and Divisional Secretariats under the National Secretariat for Early Childhood Development also conduct monitoring related to pre-schools.

¶ 08 (c) Not applicable.