Place Guarantee to EPEC:

Georgian law establishes a specific place guarantee for Early and Preschool Education and Care (EPEC), ensuring that every eligible child has access to comprehensive and free services within public institutions. As explicitly outlined in national legislation, these services include educational and developmental programs and daily nutritional support. Participation in these programs, including structured school readiness initiatives, remains voluntary yet universally available to all children of the designated age group, promoting an inclusive approach prioritizing equitable access for children from diverse backgrounds.

Municipalities play a pivotal role in implementing the 'Place Guarantee to EPEC’. They are directly responsible for establishing, funding,[1] and maintaining early childhood and preschool programs in compliance with Georgian law and governmental regulations. 

Early and preschool education is voluntary, making it universally accessible. Public institutions are required to offer free education and meals, with a day structured around nine hours and three meal times. The School Readiness Program lasts three hours daily and is available in public and private institutions. The law also specifies group sizes and adult-child ratios:

Affordability:

The law stipulates that all EPEC services within public institutions are provided at no cost to families, a significant provision that ensures affordability is not a barrier to access. Funding is supported by municipal budgets, ensuring that early education remains accessible to all families, regardless of socio-economic status. By covering the costs for basic services, including meals, the law seeks to reduce disparities in early education access, fostering inclusivity and equality from a young age.