Sunway University Launches Three New Early Childhood Education Programmes

Sunway University’s School of Education has introduced three new programmes designed to support the evolving needs of early childhood education, inclusive learning and educator development.

Programmes at a Glance

• Bachelor in Early Childhood Education with Special Needs (Honours)
• Diploma in Early Childhood Education (Conventional)
• Diploma in Early Childhood Education (Open and Distance Learning, ODL)

As conversations around the future of education increasingly look beyond academic outcomes to the development of well-rounded, confident and socially aware individuals, greater attention is being placed on the early years, when children begin to develop the foundations for lifelong learning.

Recognising the importance of this stage, Sunway University’s School of Education has introduced three new programmes in early childhood education:

Together, the three programmes reflect the evolving needs of early childhood education while providing aspiring and practising educators with opportunities to develop the knowledge and skills needed to create supportive, inclusive and meaningful learning experiences for every child.

New Early Childhood Education Programmes Launched at Sunway University

The programmes were officially launched at Sunway University and graced by YB Datuk Seri Fadhlina binti Sidek, Minister of Education Malaysia, and Professor Dato’ Elizabeth Lee, Chief Executive Officer of Sunway Education Group.

The launch underscored the importance of strengthening early childhood education and educator development in Malaysia.

“Early childhood education is not merely preparation before entering Year 1. These early years are among the most important stages in a child’s growth and exploration of the world. I believe that the best start for children begins with the best preparation for those who educate them. Initiatives such as Sunway University’s new Early Childhood Education programmes play an important role in strengthening the quality of early childhood education and nurturing future educators.”

— YB Datuk Seri Fadhlina binti Sidek, Minister of Education Malaysia

Why Early Childhood Education Matters

The new programmes come at a time when early childhood education is increasingly recognised as an important part of the wider education ecosystem.

Beyond preparing children for formal schooling, quality early learning can support their cognitive, social and emotional development, while creating opportunities for children with different learning needs to participate meaningfully.

“Quality early childhood education nurtures curiosity, creativity, communication skills and a lifelong love of learning. It teaches children how to think, not merely what to think. At Sunway University, we believe education is one of the greatest forces for social mobility and social justice. By strengthening the quality of early childhood education and advancing inclusive pedagogical practices, we are helping to ensure that no child is left behind, especially those who need our support the most.”

— Professor Dato’ Elizabeth Lee, Chief Executive Officer of Sunway Education Group

Understanding the Role of an Early Childhood Educator

According to Professor Malissa Maria Mahmud, Dean of the School of Education at Sunway University, the role of an early childhood educator extends beyond teaching.

Educators need to understand how children learn, develop and interact with the world around them.

“Early childhood education is not simply about preparing children for school. It is about understanding how children learn, develop and experience the world, and creating environments where every child feels supported, included and able to participate meaningfully. This becomes even more important as educators work with children with increasingly diverse developmental and learning needs.”

— Professor Malissa Maria Mahmud, Dean of the School of Education, Sunway University

What Are the New Early Childhood Education Programmes?

The three programmes provide different pathways for students and educators interested in early childhood education.

Investing in Early Childhood Educators

The launch highlights the connection between educator development and the quality of children's early learning experiences.

“When we invest in educators, we are also investing in the quality of the experiences children receive during some of the most formative years of their lives. Our role is to prepare educators who can respond thoughtfully to individual needs, build inclusive learning environments and recognise the potential of every child.”

— Professor Malissa Maria Mahmud

This focus places educators at the centre of efforts to create more inclusive and responsive early learning environments.

By developing their understanding of children's individual needs, educators can help create learning experiences where children feel supported, included and able to participate meaningfully.

Sunway University’s Commitment to Education

The launch further reflects Sunway University’s commitment as a mission-driven, 5th generation university to advancing education and creating meaningful impact through innovative academic programmes.

Through these new programmes, the University is equipping future education professionals with the knowledge, skills and perspectives to support diverse learners and contribute to more inclusive and responsive learning environments for generations to come.