FG launches initiative to address adult illiteracy
The National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education (NMEC) on Tuesday launched an initiative aimed at addressing adult illiteracy and equipping youths and adults with functional skills. The programme, named the Staff-Led Literacy Facilitation Initiative (NSLFI), will see NMEC employees directly establish and run literacy centres in communities with high educational needs. The […]
National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education (NMEC)
The National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education (NMEC) on Tuesday launched an initiative aimed at addressing adult illiteracy and equipping youths and adults with functional skills.
The programme, named the Staff-Led Literacy Facilitation Initiative (NSLFI), will see NMEC employees directly establish and run literacy centres in communities with high educational needs.
The initiative will initially focus on the Federal Capital Territory and surrounding areas, targeting 300,000 youths and adults.
Staff volunteers will serve as facilitators in community centres, markets, workplaces, and religious gatherings.
Speaking at the launch in Abuja, the Executive Secretary of NMEC, Prof. Garba Maitasfir, represented by the Director of Education and Development, Dr John Edeh, said: “As we have seen in recent months, with the ambitious targets to reach 300,000 youths and adults with functional literacy skills, the time for business as usual has passed. Illiteracy remains a barrier to national progress, economic inclusion, and social equity.”
Prof. Maitasfir outlined the key components of the initiative, saying: “The strategic modalities include advocacy and sensitisation of community leaders, women and youth; identification and establishment of literacy and vocational centres; provision of teaching and learning materials; and training of staff on adult learning methods with a focus on digital competencies.”
The programme integrates basic literacy with functional skills, including digital literacy, financial literacy, health education, and vocational training, aiming to transform literacy into a practical tool for lifelong learning and national development.