Strengthening early childhood education: the University of Graz is looking for supporters

With virtual puzzle pieces, supporters can help the University of Graz to further develop elementary education. Photo: Adobe Stock/Candy1812

The University of Graz focuses on research and development in early childhood education and invites the public to actively participate. Under the motto ‘The best for our little ones’, supporters can purchase symbolic puzzle pieces, the proceeds of which go directly to science, practice and innovation.

A child's early years are crucial for their future, and thus also for the development of society. The University of Graz is therefore strengthening its support for early childhood education and invites the public to actively participate in the further development of this important topic. Under the motto ‘The best for our youngest’, sponsors are being sought. These can be found at puzzleteile-spenden.at acquire symbolic puzzle pieces, the proceeds of which go directly to the promotion of research, practice and innovation in early childhood education.

“With each puzzle piece, our supporters are helping to ensure that children are equipped with the best conditions for their future,” explains Vice-Rector Catherine Walter-Laager. The individual puzzle pieces can be purchased for 50 euros at puzzleteile-spenden.at and, step by step, reveal a large picture that reflects the joint success of the campaign.

Lobby for the youngest

The donations go in full to the International Centre for Professionalisation in Elementary Education (PEP) – the largest university centre for early childhood education in the entire German-speaking world. The centre trains elementary educators, develops innovative educational materials, advises and supports nurseries, kindergartens and decision-makers. In addition, the PEP regularly initiates comprehensive research projects.

Today, almost 20,000 childcare facilities already benefit from the centre's work, which sees itself as ‘the lobby for the youngest’. The proceeds from the puzzle pieces go directly to central project areas such as:

• Research: innovative approaches to the further development of early childhood education and care.

• Further training: training opportunities for educators to help them meet current challenges in practice.

• Materials: Development of high-quality, freely accessible resources for educational professionals.

• Networks: Building collaborations between science, politics and educational institutions.

Raising awareness

“With this campaign, we not only want to raise funds for early childhood education, but also raise awareness: education begins in childhood, and this is where we need to invest,” emphasises Beatrice Weinelt, Head of the Alumni, Career and Fundraising Department at the University of Graz.

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