The 2023 UNESCO Confucius Prize for Literacy shines a light on initiatives that go above and beyond to empower individuals through literacy. One such programme from Uganda, ‘Peaceful Communities,’ of the Uganda National Self-Advocacy Initiative (UNSAI) is a testament to the profound impact literacy can have on marginalized communities.
The ‘Peaceful Communities’ programme, initiated by Dorothy Nakato Mubezi of UNSAI, was born out of a deeply personal experience. Dorothy’s late mother, Margret Nagguta, played a remarkable role in creating peace within her own family. She accomplished this by teaching her co-wife how to read and write. In the process, they forged a strong relationship. Dorothy reflects on this life-changing event sharing how “they created a very strong relationship and were very appreciative of my mum for giving her the literacy skills that enables her to read, write and express her views in public, which was not the case before. This happened 35 years ago.”
In 2018 when Dorothy herself, a woman with psychosocial disabilities from a rural background, received training on the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) felt a deep connection to SDG 4 – Quality and Equitable Education, recognizing that many persons with disabilities, especially women and girls, were left behind due to various barriers, including societal stigma, negative attitudes, accessibility issues, and poverty. In Uganda, the literacy rate among persons with disabilities remained alarmingly low compared to the general population, resulting in dissatisfaction, strife, and limited community participation.
With her mother’s courageous example in mind and guided by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, UNSAI launched the ‘Peaceful Communities’ programme. Its mission was to equip rural persons with disabilities, including women and girls who had dropped out of school or never had the opportunity to attend, with literacy and numeracy skills.
Building ‘Peaceful Communities’
‘Peaceful Communities’ is intentionally designed to address the five pillars of Sustainable Development: People, Planet, Prosperity, Peace, and Partnerships.
The impact of UNSAI’s ‘Peaceful Communities’ programme is profound. Beneficiaries have shared success stories that underscore the programme’s contribution to sustainable and peaceful societies. One participant used newfound literacy and numeracy skills to manage their coffee business more effectively, avoiding conflicts and contributing to a more harmonious society. Another woman with disabilities, initially undervalued by her community, now plays a vital role in her village by writing meeting minutes and supporting children’s education.
In a world increasingly driven by technology, UNSAI has also adapted by using social media channels like WhatsApp to stay connected with the programme’s beneficiaries. However, the digital gap remains a significant hurdle, particularly for women and girls with disabilities in rural areas. While technology could facilitate lifelong learning, the divide in access and knowledge persists.
The ‘Peaceful Communities’ programme ensures inclusivity by enrolling a diverse group of persons with disabilities, prioritizing women and girls. It provides reasonable accommodation and support to enable full participation. Additionally, the programme conducts literacy lessons in both Luganda and English, making it accessible to participants.
To reach even more marginalized individuals, UNSAI seeks support from stakeholders such as donors, funders, and international non-governmental organizations. The programme’s ambitious goals include enrolling at least 100 persons with disabilities each year, raising awareness about SDG 4, and providing necessary resources for literacy education.
With the UNESCO Confucius Prize for Literacy as a symbol of recognition and encouragement, Dorothy Nakato Mubezi and her colleagues at UNSAI are inspired to continue their mission. They aim to reach more individuals in need of literacy education and contribute further to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Dorothy Nakato Mubezi offers a message of hope, especially to those without access to education: “With literacy, you will not be left behind.” It’s a reminder that literacy isn’t just a skill; it’s a bridge to empowerment, equality, and a brighter future for all.