Sunway: Sunway University's School of Education has introduced three new programmes in early childhood education, underscoring the importance of strengthening early childhood education and educator development. They are the Bachelor in Early Childhood Education with Special Needs (Honours), Diploma in Early Childhood Education (Conventional), and Diploma in Early Childhood Education (Open and Distance Learning - ODL).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the three programmes reflect the evolving needs of early childhood education, while providing aspiring and practising educators with opportunities to develop the knowledge and skills needed to create supportive, inclusive, and meaningful learning experiences for every child. The School of Education Early Childhood Education Programmes were officially launched at Sunway University by Education Minister Datuk Seri Fadhlina Sidek. Also present was Sunway Education Group Chief Executive Officer Prof Datuk Dr Elizabeth Lee.

Lee, in her welcome address, said the launch of the new Early Childhood Education programmes is a milestone which reflects their commitment to shaping a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future through education. "At Sunway University, we believe education is one of the greatest forces for social mobility and social justice. By strengthening the quality of early childhood education and advancing inclusive pedagogical practices, we are helping to ensure that no child is left behind, especially those who need our support the most," she said.

Lee explained that the diploma combines a grounding in child development with practical learning, including guided practicum experiences in nurseries and kindergartens. She noted that the ODL option offers a different mode of study for those balancing their education with other responsibilities. "The Bachelor programme places particular emphasis on special educational needs within the wider preparation of early childhood professionals. Together, these pathways express our intention to connect knowledge of child development with thoughtful educational practice. Their significance will be seen in the judgment our graduates exercise and the quality of the experiences they help create," she said.

Also present was the Dean of the School of Education, Sunway University, Prof Dr Malissa Maria Mahmud. Meanwhile, in her opening address, Fadhlina said the new early childhood education programme introduced by Sunway University was a form of community responsibility that could help enhance expertise and professional capacity, particularly in supporting children with special needs. "This reflects a tangible commitment to producing high, capable and professional educators. Hopefully, the programme will continue to benefit everyone, especially as we work to elevate and uphold the quality of the nation's education system," she said.

She added that the Ministry of Education (MOE) was focusing on consolidating all matters related to early childhood education under its purview through the 13th Malaysia Plan. On the policy to make preschool education mandatory, Fadhlina stated that the ministry was expanding engagement sessions with parents to foster greater understanding of the importance of early education. "We are currently working hard to expand access and conduct engagement sessions with parents to help them understand the vital importance of early education, encompassing early childhood, early childhood education and preschool, and how these stages lead into subsequent phases of the learning process," she said.