NMEC sets sights on teaching reading skills to 300,000 people through fresh education drive

The National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education has unveiled a groundbreaking staff-led initiative to tackle adult illiteracy and promote functional skills among youths and adults, which was launched on Tuesday.

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This innovative programme, known as the Staff-Led Literacy Facilitation Initiative, will involve NMEC employees directly establishing and managing literacy centres in high-need communities, thereby taking a proactive approach to addressing the issue.

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According to the Executive Secretary of NMEC, Prof. Garba Maitasfir, who was represented by the Director, Education and Development, John Edeh, at the launch in Abuja, the initiative aims to reach a staggering 300,000 youth and adults with functional literacy skills.

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Maitasfir emphasized that this initiative is deeply rooted in the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President, the National Education Roadmap, and the renewed autonomy granted to NMEC by the Federal Executive Council, underscoring its significance and relevance to the nation's development.

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He noted that the time for conventional approaches has passed, and that illiteracy remains a major obstacle to national progress, economic inclusion, and social equity, highlighting the need for innovative solutions like the Staff-Led Literacy Facilitation Initiative.

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The programme will initially focus on the Federal Capital Territory and surrounding areas, with staff volunteers serving as facilitators in various community settings, including community centres, markets, workplaces, and religious gatherings, to integrate basic literacy with functional skills.

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The initiative will incorporate a range of functional skills, including digital literacy, financial literacy, health education, and vocational training, to provide participants with a comprehensive set of skills.

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Maitasfir declared that NMEC staff, who are dedicated professionals, will lead by example and participate directly in the initiative, demonstrating their commitment to addressing the issue of adult illiteracy.

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The key components of the initiative, as outlined by Maitasfir, include advocacy and sensitisation of community leaders, women, and youth, as well as the 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.

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The ES urged NMEC staff residing in underserved communities to take active roles in the initiative, promising to provide learning materials, training support, and recognition for their efforts, which will inspire learners and demonstrate that literacy is a shared national responsibility.

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Maitasfir cited a recent visit to the Aco community in Lugbe, FCT, as an example of the impact that dedicated staff can have in promoting literacy and making a positive difference in their communities.

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Also speaking at the event, the Director of the FCT Department of Mass Education, Favour Edem-Nse, represented by an official in the department, Ben Ezumah, expressed concern over the alarming rate of functional illiteracy among adults, which stands at over 31 per cent.

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Ezumah emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating that it cannot be overemphasised, and that more people need to work in the field of literacy to tackle this issue, leveraging available resources to make a meaningful impact.

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The National President of the Non-Governmental Association for Literacy Support Services, Emmanuel Noah, praised the leadership of NMEC, describing its initiative as both timely and strategic, and stressing the importance of collaboration in achieving the desired outcomes.

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Noah highlighted the need for strong collaboration and grassroots engagement, reaffirming the association's commitment to partner with NMEC and work together to build a programme where literacy becomes a culture.

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Recently, the Federal Executive Council approved the restoration of the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education to its full status, after it had earlier been downgraded to a department within the ministry, demonstrating the government's commitment to addressing literacy challenges.

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The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, noted that this decision is part of the administration's broader plan to tackle Nigeria's literacy challenges and equip millions of citizens with digital and basic education skills, underscoring the significance of the initiative.