This year’s World Forum on Early Childhood Education (ECE) takes place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from April 14 to 17. The event is held biennially and attracts participants from around the globe. David Wright, who represents England at the Forum, leads discussions surrounding men’s role in childcare.
David Wright’s Leadership Role
Wright, also part of the global Men in ECE Working Group’s leadership team, will host a special one-day event titled “A Man for All Reasons.” This initiative highlights the important contributions men can make in early childhood education. It emphasizes increasing the representation of men in this vital sector.
Notable Speakers
The event will showcase several prominent speakers, including:
- Kenny Spence, founder of Men in Childcare Edinburgh
- Jerry Parr, owner of a global consulting firm focused on early education
- Quincy McIntyre-Brandt, assistant lead at a Canadian forest school program
Focus of the World Forum on ECE
The World Forum on ECE aims to foster global dialogue on delivering quality services for young children. The World Forum Foundation (WFF) is dedicated to enhancing the life chances of children worldwide. By connecting and inspiring professionals in the field, the foundation advocates for children’s growth and development.
Participation and Impact
Since its inception in 1999, the World Forum has gathered over 12,000 early childhood professionals from 151 countries. This year, over 500 attendees from more than 45 nations are expected to participate. Key discussion topics will include:
- Children’s rights
- Child development, health, and wellbeing
- Curriculum and pedagogy
- Family engagement
- Leadership in early childhood
- Play
- Technology and AI
- Workforce and staffing
Wright reflected on his involvement with the World Forum, first attending in Belfast in 2009. He stressed the forum’s significant impact on his personal and professional life. According to Wright, the movement resonates with shared values of advocating for children in a world increasingly in need of strong voices.
For additional information and to purchase tickets for the event, visit El-Balad.
