Senegal's Minister of National Education, Moustapha Mamba Guirassy, announced on Tuesday in Kaolack that the national literacy policy document will be presented to the Council of Ministers soon. The document was technically validated with all stakeholders. Guirassy made the announcement during the closing ceremony of the third edition of the National Literacy Month. The ceremony was attended by the deputy governor of Kaolack, Mamadou Habib Kamara, and other education officials.
The National Literacy Month was held under the theme "Literacy, a lever for entrepreneurship and employability for sustainable social and economic inclusion." The event highlighted the importance of linking literacy, vocational training, and economic integration. Guirassy emphasized that literacy should lead to tangible outcomes, saying "literacy that leads to nothing is an open door to a wall." He also stressed the role of digital technology in literacy strategies.
Guirassy noted that digital technology can be a powerful tool for reaching populations, citing the widespread use of mobile phones. He suggested that phones can be used as educational tools, replacing traditional textbooks. The minister also reported progress in promoting national languages, with 22 out of 25 languages codified and a bilingual education model deployed in 1,951 schools.
The minister emphasized the need to strengthen the capacities and working conditions of literacy actors. He stated that a sustainable policy requires trained, supported, and recognized actors. Guirassy also called on local authorities, businesses, and communities to contribute more to promoting literacy. He argued that investing in literacy is essential for local development and democracy.
Guirassy invited businesses to consider literacy as a factor in securing professional relationships. He encouraged communities to invest in literacy, saying that "a commune that educates its inhabitants invests in its own fiscality, democracy, and peace." The minister emphasized that the goal now is to turn literacy gains into concrete opportunities for populations.
The National Literacy Month aims to raise awareness about the importance of literacy and mobilize stakeholders to support literacy initiatives. Guirassy launched a call to action, saying "this month ends, but the work begins." He urged stakeholders to continue efforts in every village, market, and community. The minister's announcement reflects the government's commitment to improving education and promoting economic development.
The presentation of the national literacy policy document to the Council of Ministers is expected to mark a significant step towards implementing a comprehensive literacy strategy. The policy aims to address the challenges of literacy and promote sustainable development. Key stakeholders will be watching closely as the government works to translate its commitment into concrete actions.
Key points
- The Senegalese government plans to present a national literacy policy document to the Council of Ministers soon.
- The policy aims to link literacy, vocational training, and economic integration.
- The government is committed to improving education and promoting economic development through literacy initiatives.
