Shillong, April 28: In a major step towards strengthening early childhood care, the Meghalaya Early Childhood Development Mission (MECDM) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Social Service Centre Shillong (SSC), the social arm of the Archdiocese of Shillong.
The collaboration aims to integrate early childhood development (ECD) into the state’s faith-based ecosystem, leveraging the Church’s outreach to families across communities.
The event was attended by parish priests from all 47 parishes under the Archdiocese of Shillong, along with senior MECDM officials and Church leaders. Participants were provided with the Mission 1000 Days Booklet and FBO pamphlets to equip them with scientific knowledge on child development for use in sermons, counselling, and outreach programmes.
MECDM CEO Sampath Kumar emphasised that early childhood development is not just a government responsibility but a collective societal effort, highlighting the Church’s crucial role in influencing families.
SSC Director Teiborlang Lyngdoh said the partnership reflects a commitment to responsible parenting and nurturing environments for children, underscoring the importance of early care in shaping future generations.
The initiative is expected to expand awareness and promote better parenting practices across Meghalaya.
