Hogoro, Kongwa District, Tanzania: During the commemoration of International Literacy Day, the District Commissioner (DC) of Kongwa District strongly appealed to sector departments and local stakeholders to fully utilise the Hogoro Community Learning Centre (CLC) in efforts to combat poverty and uplift local livelihoods.

Speaking at the event held in Hogoro Ward, the DC emphasised the critical role the centre can play in providing crucial training and skills to the community, particularly in relation to agriculture and livestock.

The agricultural extension officer will oversee this centre, and it's their responsibility to engage experts to provide training here. Through this, the community can better equip themselves to fight poverty.

He further highlighted that he identified key challenges facing local producers.

I noticed a lack of access to markets for the products they create. These groups need training on how to add value to their products and find markets to improve their economic situation.

Hogoro CLC, the DC argued, should serve as a multi-purpose resource, offering not just agricultural support but also community health and entrepreneurship education.

This centre must be visible and accessible to the broader community. Our community development officers need to step up and train people on how to form and manage groups effectively.

The DC also called for a broader definition of adult education, moving away from traditional literacy alone to include problem-solving and skills development that address real-life challenges.

The goal is to continue providing education in a way that helps adults overcome the obstacles they face in their daily lives.

In his speech, the DC reminded local leaders to raise awareness about the CLC's potential to improve citizens' lives.

Education is human’s primary weapon. Beyond vocational training, this centre can offer literacy programmes for those who missed out on formal education.

He closed by urging various stakeholders, including local authorities and NGOs, to continue investing in adult education.

The government is committed to creating an environment that promotes learning for all, ensuring no one is left behind in literacy, numeracy, and essential life skills.

The DC also extended his gratitude to DVV International for their steadfast support in strengthening the adult education system in Tanzania and specifically in Kongwa District.

Your contribution has been significant, and we greatly appreciate the efforts you’ve made toward advancing adult education.