Better Spaces for Early Learning: European Union Renovated Kindergartens in Five BiH Cities

As part of ongoing efforts to improve the quality of early childhood education and care in Bosnia and Herzegovina, kindergarten facilities in Kotor Varoš, Gradiška, Teslić, Višegrad, and Tuzla have been renovated. This initiative was implemented within the framework of a partnership project between the European Union and UNICEF titled Strengthened social, child protection and education systems in BiH to provide inclusive services and prevent institutionalization (component 1- Strengthen infrastructure of preschool institutions).

The renovations covered several key areas, depending on the needs of each individual institution. The works included remediation of floors, heating systems, kitchens, sanitary facilities, joinery, and roofs. Thanks to these improvements, the kindergartens now provide a safer, more functional, and warmer environment, which directly contributes to the quality of the children's stay and development.

The completion of works in an additional 12 kindergartens across Bosnia and Herzegovina is planned by the end of the project. The total value of the work completed so far amounts to over 590,000 convertible marks, with the primary goal being to raise the quality and safety standards in all involved institutions.

A Call for Further Investment in Children's Future

Although the renovation of existing capacities is an important step, Bosnia and Herzegovina continues to face significant challenges in the field of early childhood education and care.

Statistics clearly indicate the urgency of the situation:

• Preschool coverage for children aged 0 to 2 is only 13%.
• For children aged 3 to 5, this percentage is 43%.
• Over 8,700 children are currently waiting for a kindergarten place.

In partnership with the European Union and the United Nations, Bosnia and Herzegovina is implementing a comprehensive human capital development strategy that builds a bridge from early childhood to old age. By supporting reforms aligned with European standards and sustainable development goals, the EU and UN, together with BiH institutions, are investing in people to build a more resilient, inclusive, and prosperous future for all. According to a study Investing in Children in Bosnia and Herzegovina conducted by UNICEF in BiH, it has been proven that every mark invested in early childhood education and care returns sevenfold through long-term benefits for society and the economy.

The programme aims to enhance the socio-economic conditions and quality of life for children and families in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It also seeks to strengthen the social welfare, child protection, and education systems to prevent unnecessary separation of children from their families and to reduce institutionalization.