Women accessing adult education in Milenge district have praised the government for introducing and expanding adult literacy classes in the area.
Pamela Mwape, an adult learner in Grade Two at Kasepa Primary School, said the program provides opportunities for adults who previously missed out on formal education. She encouraged other adults to attend literacy classes, emphasizing that it is never too late to learn.
“Some people used to discourage me, saying I was too old to go to school. But I pushed on because I wanted to learn how to read and write,” Ms Mwape said.
Milenge District Education Board Secretary, Ellie Shumba, represented by Education Standards Officer General Clifford Chimpo, said the district has intensified efforts to promote literacy. He stressed that reading and writing are essential for personal empowerment and district development.
Mr Shumba spoke during the 2025 International Literacy Day celebrations, held under the theme “Promoting Literacy in a Digital Era.” He highlighted that literacy in today’s digital age enables participation in trade, communication, and technology.
“For Milenge to develop, we need to build an enlightened community. Literacy is not just about classroom knowledge; it equips people to engage with the world as it evolves. In the digital era, being able to read and write helps one participate in trade and opportunities available through technology,” he said.
Mr Shumba encouraged community members to embrace digital platforms, noting that literacy bridges economic growth and inclusion.
Education Standards Officer for Distance and Open Learning, Coster Chimaninine, called on community workers to lead in promoting adult learning.
“It is our duty to support the community. We must encourage adults to pursue education so that together, we can uplift Milenge as a district,” Mr Chimaninine said.
The initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to empowering adults through literacy and equipping communities to engage effectively in a rapidly evolving digital world.