International literacy week in Tanzania: A celebration of progress and promise
Every year, communities around the world come together to celebrate International Literacy Week (ILW). This day, established by UNESCO in 1967, is dedicated to promoting the importance of literacy as a tool for empowering individuals and building more inclusive societies.
Literacy, at its core, refers to the ability to read, write, and comprehend information, but in today's world, it extends to functional literacy: applying these skills to solve problems, make informed decisions, and engage meaningfully in society.
In Tanzania, the occasion was marked with nationwide festivities from October 7th to 11th, reflecting the country's unwavering commitment to inclusive lifelong learning.
DVV International, a key partner in adult learning and education (ALE) in Tanzania, plays a pivotal role in promoting and strengthening systems of ALE and lifelong learning. To mark ILW 2024, DVV International facilitated various activities at the community level to highlight the impact of literacy initiatives. These included graduation ceremonies of learners, sports events, literacy competitions, and more. The goal was to raise awareness in the pilot districts of Kibaha, Kisarawe, and Kongwa, where DVV International is implementing pilot Community Learning Centres (CLCs). The institute contributed by providing essential resources and by working closely with district officials to plan and showcase the importance and benefits of ALE and literacy. Also, DVV International contributed to the successful implementation of the final one-day symposium which was accompanied by an exhibition by various stakeholders of the ALE sector.
Inclusion in lifelong learning for skills, resilience, peace, and development
UNESCO's global theme for International Literacy Day 2024 was “Promoting Multilingual Education: Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace.” This theme emphasised the importance of incorporating multilingual approaches into education to foster communication, understanding, and peace across cultures.
In Tanzania, the theme for ILW 2024 was "Inclusion in Lifelong Learning for Skills, Resilience, Peace, and Development." This theme aligned with UNESCO's global focus on promoting multilingual education, emphasising the importance of creating inclusive learning environments that cater to diverse needs and backgrounds.
The theme resonated deeply with the country's unique challenges and opportunities. With a population of over 60 million, Tanzania faces significant disparities in education access, particularly in rural areas and among marginalised groups. By prioritizing inclusion, the government aims to ensure that all citizens, regardless of their age, gender, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status, have the opportunity to acquire the skills and knowledge they need to thrive. It also highlights the use of real-life learning environments, which enable individuals to acquire and apply skills relevant to their development.
Commemoration events were held throughout different districts in Tanzania in the lead-up to ILW. In the district of Kibaha for example, the celebrations featured a range of activities including sports competitions, cultural performances, and science presentations from students of Open Schools. The event also included a graduation ceremony for 142 adult learners who had completed literacy, numeracy, and vocational skills training programs. The highlight of the event in the district of Kisarawe was the official opening of the Community Learning Centre (CLC) at Mzenga and the recognition of graduates from literacy training and skills development programs.
Following the district-level celebrations, ILW was celebrated nationally from October 7th to 11th in Tabora region. The events included an exhibition, meetings for stakeholders and ALE officers, an academic symposium, and the peak of the celebrations on the 11th.
Working together to enhance adult learning and education in Tanzania
Held at the Regional Commissioner Hall in Tabora on October 10th, the symposium brought together government officials, adult education officers, academicians, NGOs, the Institute of Adult Education, and development partners to discuss and formulate resolutions for enhancing adult learning and education in Tanzania. The permanent secretary of the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology, Prof. Carolyne Nombo, is the guest of honor. During her opening speech, she emphasised the importance of Adult Education.
"To encourage more people to participate in Adult Education and Lifelong Learning, we need to make these programs interesting. Lifelong learning is a part of our daily lives, and as stakeholders, we must develop a solid strategy for implementing, monitoring, and delivering quality and creative adult education.” – Prof. Carolyne Nombo, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology
The resolutions from the symposium included revitalizing ALE committees at various levels, ensuring the active participation of District and Regional Education Officers in future ILW commemorations, establishing at least one CLC in each district, and providing capacity-building programs for Adult Education Officers in collaboration with the Institute of Adult Education.
The national celebrations during the peak day also featured the presentation of reports from ALE officers across Tanzania, showcasing progress and identifying challenges in the implementation of adult education programmes.
The ILW celebrations in Tanzania showcased the nation's dedication to promoting literacy and lifelong learning for all citizens. The events highlighted the importance of inclusivity in education and the role of adult education in empowering individuals and communities. The resolutions adopted during the symposium provided a roadmap for strengthening adult and non-formal education in Tanzania, furthering the nation's progress towards achieving literacy for all.
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