Strong Pacific Families at the Heart of ECD Forum in Samoa

Leaders Emphasise Culturally Grounded Parenting and Community-Based Support Systems.

The second day of the Pacific Early Childhood Development (ECD) Forum continued in Apia with a strong focus on empowering families, parents, and caregivers under the theme “Strong Pacific Families: Supporting Parents & Caregivers.”

Fiji’s Minister for Education, Hon. Aseri Radrodro, Minister for Health and Medical Services, Hon. Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu, and Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Hon. Sashi Kiran, joined key regional counterparts and stakeholders in a series of discussions highlighting the central role of families and communities in raising Pacific children.

Speaking at the forum, leaders stressed the importance of culturally grounded parenting and caregiving practices that reflect Pacific values, traditions, and identity. The phrase “It takes a village to raise Pacific children” echoed throughout the event as a reminder of the collective responsibility in nurturing future generations.

The discussions further highlighted the essential contributions of faith-based organisations, traditional knowledge systems, and inclusive community practices in child protection and family well-being. Delegates shared experiences and models of support that are being successfully implemented in their respective countries.

An overarching goal of the forum is to foster cross-sectoral collaboration—particularly among education, health, and social protection sectors—while ensuring that national and regional ECD strategies are rooted in Pacific cultures, languages, and community dynamics.

The forum continues this week, aiming to shape inclusive and resilient early childhood systems across the Pacific region.