The Early Childhood Commission (ECC) says it will be heightening efforts to rationalise basic schools this year, even as it seeks to certify more institutions.
The rationalisation process involves merging clusters of basic schools as well as subsuming some into infant departments of primary schools.
Acting Executive Director at the Commission, Karlene DeGrasse-Deslandes, says the rationalisation process is essential to improve efficiency and ensure effective learning environments for children.
According to DeGrasse-Deslandes, it is intended that more children will have access to trained teachers in established certified Government-operated infant schools or departments.
She adds that the rationalisation allows for greater collaboration with early childhood development partners and stakeholders to have institutions meet the required standards for certification.
It was noted that to date, 25 early childhood institutions have attained certification status and it is expected that at least 100 more will be certified by August.