Evaluation of UNICEF's Early Childhood Development Programme with Focus on Government of Netherlands Funding (2008-2010): Global Synthesis Report

Well-implemented early childhood development (ECD) interventions can improve children’s well-being. This report synthesizes the findings from an evaluation of the United Nations Children’s Fund’s (UNICEF's) ECD strategies and activities with a focus on the UNICEF–Government of the Netherlands (GoN) Cooperation Programme on ECD. Under the programme, the Dutch government provided US$13.5 million for UNICEF headquarters to work with its regional offices, 10 selected country offices, and country partners in Africa and Asia in achieving three strategic objectives: (1) mainstreaming ECD policies into national plans, policies, and services; (2) building the capacity of policymakers, service providers, and parents to fulfil duties and claim rights related to ECD; and (3) generating and disseminating knowledge in support of ECD policies and services. The evaluation had two related components: (1) four in-depth country case studies of UNICEF ECD strategies and (2) an assessment of UNICEF ECD strategies at different levels, including cross-country comparisons among the 10 countries funded through the programme. The evaluation was a retrospective, theory-based assessment of the processes and results of ECD strategies and activities, employing mixed methods (primarily qualitative but incorporating survey data as well). It drew on logical frameworks for ECD to establish a theoretical foundation for inquiry; processes and outcomes were assessed in reference to those specified in the frameworks. Conclusions are presented about (1) the three strategic areas of mainstreaming, building capacity, and generating and disseminating knowledge; (2) ECD service coverage, quality/efficiency, and sustainability; (3) the cross-cutting issues of planning, management, coordination, and partnerships, as well as equity and reaching the underserved and disadvantaged; (4) overall effectiveness and relevance/appropriateness; and (5) contribution of the Netherlands government investment.