Stories

“Kuphunzira Sikumatha” – DVV International localises the concept of lifelong learning in Malawi

Advertising image with the slogan ‘Learning never ends’ in Chichewa on a blue banner. To the left is a graphic of a flower. Key concepts of the new project are represented by yellow petals.

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.

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From Copenhagen to Leipzig: My six years as president of the European Association for the Education of Adults

A group of people stand in a courtyard and smile at the camera.

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.

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A man stands with a sheet of paper and a pen in his hands. Four other people can be seen sitting in the background.

Germany touts ALE as Malawi bids farewell to Gerhard Quincke

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.

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Inclusive ALE: digital education for deaf people

Two raised thumbs can be seen in the foreground, which are dedicated to a person in the background. The person can be seen via a video call on a smartphone.

In Ecuador, adult learning and education (ALE) is making tangible progress towards greater inclusion. New initiatives are working to realise the right to education, especially for those who have been excluded from the traditional education system.

One important step forward in this area has been achieved at the state education centre “Juan Montalvo” in Quito, where a virtual education programme has been specifically adapted for deaf people. This was made possible through collaboration between DVV International and the Ministry of Education. To uphold the principles of equality and educational equity, DVV International provided technical consultation to help further develop the Ministry of Education’s Moodle platform, making it more accessible for deaf learners.

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