Peru Recognizes Over 690 Early Childhood Volunteers

Why this is here: The Cuna Más program certified competencies in two specific areas of practice: strengthening families’ basic care of children to 36 months, and attending to the integral development of children from 6 to 36 months.

In Peru, the National Cuna Más program recognized 695 community volunteers for their work providing comprehensive care to children under 36 months. These volunteers, working in Junín, Áncash, and other regions, passed a recent evaluation and certification process. The program, run by the Ministry of Development and Social Inclusion, partnered with the Peruvian Institute for Evaluation, Accreditation and Certification of Basic Education to assess the volunteers’ skills.

Minister Lily Vásquez presented certificates to 138 volunteers during a ceremony in Surco, Lima. Cuna Más has been authorized since 2020 to certify competencies in early childhood care practices. This certification ensures consistent standards in the services provided by these community workers.

The evaluation took place from November 2025 to March of this year. While the certification offers volunteers opportunities for further education or employment, challenges remain in sustaining quality care across all communities served by Cuna Más. The program continues to work toward improving outcomes for vulnerable families and young children.