In our rapidly changing world, literacy stands as a fundamental pillar of progress, empowerment, and equality. As societies grow more interconnected and knowledge-driven, the ability to read, write, and critically engage with information has become an essential skill rather than a mere privilege.
On 8 September 2025, Uganda joined the rest of the world in commemorating International Literacy Day (ILD) under the global theme “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era”. DVV International supported the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development (MGLSD) in two key events: the ILD Symposium and the commissioning of a Community Learning Centre (CLC).
DVV International is proud to celebrate the 50 years’ anniversary of one of its principal national partners in Tanzania – the Institute of Adult Education (IAE). Tanzania’s IAE stands out as a government-established, publicly funded national institute dedicated to adult education – one of the few of its kind on the continent.
In many of the countries where DVV International operates, it remains challenging to convey the concepts of lifelong learning and adult learning and education (ALE).
In Malawi, DVV International in collaboration with the National Centre for Adult Literacy and Education (NACLAE) has launched the the ‘Kuphunzira Sikumatha’ campaign, a Malawian version of “lifelong learning” in the local language, Chichewa. ‘Kuphunzira Sikumatha’ literally means “learning doesn’t stop”. This campaign has helped many people, mainly in rural areas, to fully understand what lifelong learning is about.
DVV International has been active in Togo since 2020 and is committed to strengthening adult and non-formal education. In a video, the institute gives an insight into its work in Togo and shows how the educational programs improve the quality of life in the communities.
Six years at the helm of the European Association for the Education of Adults (EAEA). In this article, Uwe Gartenschlaeger reflects on his time as President of EAEA. He describes digital advances in communication, civil society engagement and a vision for a Europe that encompasses more than just the EU. He also explains why adult learning and education (ALE) is now more important than ever.
The German Embassy in Malawi has emphasised the importance of Adult Learning and Education (ALE) for the social and economic development of Malawi.
The Chief of the German Development Cooperation and acting German Ambassador to Malawi, Dr. Andreas Hartmann, said this on Friday in Lilongwe during a ceremony at which Malawi’s ALE stakeholders bid farewell to DVV International Regional Director for Southern Africa, Gerhard Quincke, who is retiring and handing over his position to Dr. Johann Heilmann.
