Reg 10 education department heartened by response to new Literacy Programme

After its initial outreach and recruitment phase, which was described as a success, the Department of Education- Reg#10 was heartened by the “strong start” of its Community-Based Adult & School Leavers Literacy Programme.
According to the department, the team first visited the communities of Three Friends, Old England, and Coomacka, where flyers were distributed and residents were engaged on the benefits of the programme. The response from community members was encouraging, and several persons had expressed interest in enrolling.
As the programme officially began on November 11, participants experienced an orientation session where they were provided with an overview of the programme and introduced to the purpose, goals, and importance of the initiative.
After “ice-breaking” activities that included a “Build the Tallest Tower in 3 Minutes!”, the group was given practical demonstrations showing why learning to read is essential in everyday life, and real-life examples of how improved literacy can create positive change at home, work, and in the community. In addition, parents received guidance on how to support their children with reading and learning at home. One-on-one literacy assessments were done on Tuesday, and numeracy assessments were completed on Thursday. These assessments, the department noted, are crucial for identifying each participant’s current skill level and ensuring that instruction is targeted, supportive, and responsive to their individual needs. The first session was described as productive, interactive, and filled with positive energy; setting the tone for meaningful learning and growth as the programme continues. “This positive reception affirms the strong desire within our communities to strengthen literacy and numeracy skills for personal and professional growth,” it noted in a Facebook post. “We look forward to the weeks ahead as we continue to empower our adults and school leavers with the skills they need to thrive.” The programme is currently in its implementation phase, with sessions being held every Tuesday and Thursday at the Coomacka Primary School, beginning at 16:00h.

Former Education Minister, Priya Manickchand, had noted back in 2021 that while Guyanese students continue to do well in English at the national examinations, there still remains an issue with illiteracy among the population. She had announced then that the Ministry would re-establish the adult literacy programme in communities and implement workplace literacy programmes. Additionally, the Ministry aimed to expand community-based literacy programmes in various communities in all education districts for out-of-school youths and dropouts, who have low literacy rates. Working adults whose limited literacy skills hinder their ability to perform job functions effectively and
advance professionally; and adolescents and young adults who are no longer enrolled in formal education and require alternative literacy pathways to support personal development and employability, are targeted in the initiative.
According to reports, illiteracy and the high primary school dropout rate are national issues in Guyana, with over 50 per cent of the country’s working-age population having a primary school education or less. Adult Literacy Programmes aim to improve reading, writing, and problem-solving skills necessary for individuals to function effectively in society. They recognise the diverse needs of adult learners, often integrating real-life scenarios and empirical learning that align with their daily responsibilities and experiences.