Rwanda aims to train 710,852 illiterate adults, equipping them with basic reading, counting and writing skills by 2029. Statistics from the Ministry of Education show that the country has an illiterate adult population of 2,920,660, a problem that the government is trying to reduce substantially through the Education Sector Strategic Plan (ESSP) of 2024-2029. ALSO READ: Govt targets 84% literacy rate by 2024 An official from the ministry told The New Times that the target will be achieved by putting efforts in the adult education curriculum where locally relevant content in Kinyarwanda and English (or French) will be developed to align with local context and make learning more applicable to daily life. The curriculum will also focus on functional literacy, integrating basic skills like reading, writing, and arithmetic with vocational and life skills such as financial literacy and entrepreneurship. Radio and TV programmes will be utilised to reach rural populations, with focus on interactive learning for better retention. Community involvement will also be encouraged, with local leaders playing a key role in promoting literacy and ensuring participation. The ministry also plans to enter partnerships with NGOs and civil society organisations to expand literacy outreaches and provide necessary resources to support literacy efforts. Claver Kimonyo, a 61-year-old resident of Nyamagabe District, described the difficulties he faces in accessing various services, including Community-Based Insurance, due to illiteracy. “I often have to rely on others for help because I don’t know how to use a mobile phone, even though we are urged to handle payments ourselves to avoid scams or misappropriation from some local leaders,” he explained. ALSO READ: Tackling illiteracy among historically marginalised communities His dependence on others for financial management also leaves him vulnerable to exploitation. “Illiteracy makes you dependent,” Kimonyo added, emphasizing that it limits his ability to participate in community development initiatives, leaving him feeling left behind in an increasingly digital world. He stressed the need for tailored literacy programs, particularly for older adults. “There should be more programs for people like me so we can adapt and access essential services on our own,” he urged. Florence Mugeni, a 52-year-old resident of Rwamagana District, reflected on the challenges she faced growing up as a girl, explaining that, in her young age, girls were often expected to stay home and help with domestic tasks, making it difficult for them to attend school. I didn’t attend school, and that has affected me, Mugeni said, noting that she struggles with basic literacy skills. As a result, she cannot read announcements or take on jobs requiring reading or writing. She believes that training in basic literacy, particularly in Kinyarwanda, would be highly beneficial. ALSO READ: Placing adult education at the heart of war on illiteracy According to the 2022 population census, the literacy rate for adults aged 15 and above stands at 78.8 percent, up from 73.22 percent in 2018 and 70.80 percent in 2014. “Literacy centres and community-based programs have had a widespread impact, especially in rural areas where traditional schooling is often inaccessible,” the ministry stated. MINEDUC highlighted progress in community library access, with the number of libraries increasing from 72 in 2022 to 93 in 2024.
