Akimanizanye Annonciata¹, Muhimpundu Nadege^2,

Preschool education is the very important for children's development. It is likely agreed that parents play a vital role in success of preschool education. Parents’ perceptions towards early childhood education are very useful for an effective, innovative and successful program. However, a very little is known about Rwanda. This study aims to fill this gap by investigating parents’ opinions on importance of preschool education. The semi structured interview was used to collect data both in Kigali city (to capture urban situation) and in eastern province (representing rural situation) while a qualitative approach was employed to provide extensively a deeper understanding of the respondents. Results show that 78% of all interviewees in rural area were not aware of preschool importance while in urban area parents were much concerned about their kids future. In Urban 95% of all respondents agree that preschool is very necessary. For a deeper understanding, the parents perceptions influencing factors were discussed. A strong association between perceptions level and parents socioeconomic status, education background, living area (rural/urban) was found. The study recommended awareness campaigns for parents around the country to the importance of preschool education.

parents, preschool education, perception, rwanda