2023: Yale University: A Randomized Evaluation of the Effects of a Preschool Intervention on Child Learning and Women’s Economic Empowerment in Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya – Prof Helen Baker-Henningham

The aim of this study is to design and test a model of early childhood education in rural Kenya that emphasizes child development and economic participation for women in a cost-effective manner. Using a randomized controlled trial design, the project will examine the impact of allowing children in Tharaka Nithi County (TNC), Kenya to attend pre-school from the age of 3 versus the current early childhood development programming in Kenya which is for children ages 4 and above. The project also aims to enhance the preschool provision for the children attending pre-primary one (PP1). The intervention includes 5 main components: 1) a curriculum framework for the newly enrolled 3-year old children to complement the existing government curriculum for 4-year olds, 2) a classroom kit containing low-cost, locally available teaching and learning materials, 3) a series of activity guides (lesson plans) for use by teachers, 4) training workshops for teachers, and 5) in-class coaching and support for teachers. The intervention aims to improve child development and school readiness for children aged 3 and 4 at the start. We also hypothesize an increase in employment and income among mothers of 3-year-olds.

Investigators: Costas Meghir (Yale, USA), Simon Onywere (Kenyatta University, Kenya), Teresa Mwoma (Kenyatta University, Kenya), Samson Oteyo (Kenyatta University, Kenya), Dorothy Navaisha, (Tharaka Nithi County Government, Kenya)

Sponsor: Yale University, Gates Foundation

Overseas Collaborating Institutions: Kenyatta University, Kenya; Yale University, USA

Government Collaborating Institution: Tharaka Nithi County Government, Kenya