Nairobi County joined the global community in celebrating International Literacy Day, under this year’s theme: “Promoting Literacy in a Digital World.”
The celebrations were held in Westlands Constituency; Kangemi Ward, and was graced by Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Moses Gicheru who underscored importance of education.
The DCC delivered a message on behalf of the Cabinet Secretary for Labour and Social Protection Alfred Mutua.
In the speech CS highlighted government commitment in supporting literacy programmes in the country.
Mutua stated that the government will recruit more officers and will invest in improving adult learning infrastructures.
The CS added that most government services are now provided on digital platforms and Kenyans must embrace learning to benefit from the services.
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In Kenya Adult Literacy Rate (ages 15 and above), approximately 82.9% in 2022, which means roughly 17.1% of adults are illiterate.
Youth literacy is significantly higher, signaling notable progress among younger generations.
In Kwale County illiteracy rate is 57% being among counties with most illiterate adults. Current enrollment in adult education in the county is just 2,236 learners.
The CS held the celebrations in the county to expand literacy opportunities in the county.
Nairobi County Director of Adult and Continuing Education Salome Terah called on school dropouts and adults without formal education to enroll in Adult and Continuing Education (ACE) centres.
The director noted that the education can empower them to manage their businesses, and access many opportunities.
Some of the challenges facing the enrollment of adult learning in the country include inadequate facilities (e.g., shared classrooms with ECDE), low funding and insufficient teaching staff, Social stigma against adult learners and limited public awareness and outreach.
By Obegi Malack
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