AID grant no, 674-0302-G-SS-0031-00 to the Early Learning Resource Unit for a program of educational support and training

The grant will support ELRU"s staff development efforts, as well as its programs in rural outreach, parent and community services, and information services. To upgrade ELRU"s management staff, and in particular to enable blacks to advance to senior positions, the project will finance: (1) the completion of secondary and university degrees for four ELRU staff members, and (2) courses, seminars, and conferences on early childhood development overseas and in South Africa for various ELRU staff members. The project will also provide operating expenses for three ELRU programs: (1) rural outreach, which includes parent awareness training, childcare worker training, facilitation of local support networks, and production of simple resource materials; (2) parent and community services, which includes consultations and workshops for providers of nonformal preschool services (e.g., parents, childminders, playgroup leaders); (3) information services pertaining to preschool issues.