The Role of Urban Planning for Sustainable Preschool Education Environment: In the Context of Rapid Urbanization in Addis Ababa.

This study examines the role of urban socio-spatial planning and early childhood care and education (ECCE) infrastructure in supporting sustainable preschool environments amid rapid urbanization in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Using qualitative case studies of public and private preschools in two sub-cities, the research identifies significant policy, institutional, and practice gaps, including inadequate preschool infrastructure, lack of coordinated urban planning and education sector cooperation, and insufficient implementation of ECCE standards. The findings highlight that preschool facilities often suffer from overcrowding, limited play spaces, and poor location relative to community needs, which negatively affect children's holistic development and learning experiences. The study concludes that integrated policy intervention and collaborative urban planning are essential to provide safe, nurturing, and accessible preschool environments that align with sustainable urban development goals and children's rights.