Early childhood education (ECE) programmes are increasingly recognised for their potential to enhance cognitive development in children, setting them up for academic success later in life. A comprehensive review was conducted using data from official education records and standardised assessments administered to students across participating schools. The analysis revealed a significant improvement in mean test scores by 15% for students enrolled in ECE programmes compared to those not enrolled, highlighting the positive correlation between early learning interventions and academic outcomes. The study underscores the importance of integrating ECE into primary school curricula to mitigate educational disparities. Investment in ECE programmes should be prioritised by government agencies and education stakeholders to ensure equitable access and improve overall student performance. Early Childhood Education, Academic Performance, Primary Schools, Northern Ghana