Nairobi: Stakeholders and residents gathered at Ekwanda Comprehensive School in Vihiga County to commemorate International Literacy Day, highlighting strides and challenges in adult learning and youth welfare.
According to Kenya News Agency, Vihiga County Director for Adult Education Jared Koseso emphasized the importance of continuous learning for adults and called on those who have not enrolled to take advantage of available adult education centres. Koseso stated that within nine months of regular attendance, learners can become proficient in reading, writing, speaking, and performing basic calculations. He urged community members to acquire essential skills ahead of future civic activities.
Statistics shared by county education officials reveal that Vihiga County currently has 1,439 registered learners across adult education centres, with an average attendance of 737 learners. Of the 60 candidates who sat for the recent proficiency examinations, 42 were female, and 54 candidates, 36 of them women, passed the test. Successful candidates have been awarded certificates marking their proficiency and readiness to transition to post-literacy programs, which focus on applying skills in practical contexts.
In a speech delivered on behalf of the County Commissioner, Luanda DCC Mary Awino noted that national adult literacy rates have improved significantly from 61.5 percent in 2006 to 82.88 percent nationwide. The Directorate of Adult Learning and Education manages about 5,220 adult education centres serving over 165,000 enrolled learners. Adult participation in national secondary examinations is also increasing, with over 13,000 adult learners registered to sit for the upcoming Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations, up from 7,700 candidates the previous year.
Awino echoed the call for continuous learning, noting that education extends beyond classroom walls and can be gained from peers. She expressed concern over substance abuse and idling among local youth, urging them to build valuable skills and exploit constructive talents. Awino cautioned parents against premature celebration parties for children completing basic examination levels, warning that such gatherings often expose teenagers to alcohol, drugs, and risky behaviour.
Despite national progress, official reports indicate that approximately 17.1 percent of Kenya’s adult population remains unable to read or write. To address infrastructure and teacher shortages, the government is expanding partnerships, digital literacy programs, and computer literacy centres, collaborating with international partners, including UNESCO and the Government of Japan.
