The municipality of Ölfus in Iceland has announced that it will eliminate fees for preschool places, making care available free of charge for all children starting next month. This policy was approved during a recent town council meeting and is intended to provide equal opportunity for all families, regardless of their financial circumstances. The decision significantly removes income-based restrictions on preschool enrollment, which could enhance access to early childhood education.

Mayor Elliði Vignisson shared insights on this decision, highlighting the strong financial position of the municipality as a driving force behind this change. Ölfus has experienced robust economic performance in the past years, with a projected surplus of 1.346 billion Icelandic króna for 2025, exceeding initial estimates. Additionally, the population has grown by 4.5% over the past year, indicating a rising demand for public services, including education for young children.

This move is seen as an investment in community welfare, particularly aimed at supporting young families and children. The mayor emphasized the importance of enhancing living conditions and opportunities for residents, indicating a commitment to improving the overall well-being of the community. As preschool education is crucial for early childhood development, this initiative may have long-lasting positive impacts on the children in Ölfus and potentially set a precedent for other municipalities in Iceland.