Hosted by SSESW colleague Professor Paul Connolly under the banner of the Centre for Evidence and Social Innovation at Queen’s, this one-day conference will draw together many of the world’s leading international experts in early childhood development (ECD) and peacebuilding to explore the theory and practice of how ECD services can improve the lives of children and families and help to promote social cohesion.

• What role can early childhood development (ECD) play in promoting social cohesion and peacebuilding?
• What are the lessons that can be learnt from those currently providing ECD services in countries affected by conflict?
• How do we know whether ECD services are making a difference and having a measurable impact on the lives of children and families and in contributing to broader social cohesion?

Information will also be shared at the conference of a new global research network on ECD and peacebuilding led by Yale, Queen’s, NYU and Harvard and working under the auspices of the international Early Childhood Peace Consortium.

DATE 31 May

TIME 9.00am to 4.30 pm

VENUE Riddel Hall, Queen's University Belfast

REGISTRATION: Registration is free but it is essential to reserve a place by contacting David Piekaar on: (028) 9097 5956 or at d.piekaar@qub.ac.uk

Participants include:

• Professor Lawrence Aber, New York University
• Dr Theresa Betancourt, Harvard University
• Dr Pia Britto, UNICEF
• Professor Paul Connolly, Queen’s University Belfast
• Siobhan Fitzpatrick, Early Years – The Organisation for Young Children
• Professor James F. Leckman, Yale University
• Dr Phuong Pham, Harvard Humanitarian Initiative
• Dr Angelica Ponguta, Yale University
• Dr Patrick Vinck, Harvard Humanitarian Initiative
• Dr Rima Salah, UNICEF
• Professor Hirokazu Yoshikawa, New York University