Adult education programmes are crucial for enhancing literacy and numeracy skills. However, functional literacy goes beyond basic reading and writing; it significantly impacts the livelihoods of individuals in rural communities. Literacy paves the way for development, empowering individuals to make informed choices and take control of their personal and collective lives. When adult literacy is linked to development activities, learners can significantly improve their daily lives, enhancing their capabilities and improving their quality of life.

Adult learners tend to prioritize education directly related to their livelihoods, guides their day-to-day activities and fosters socio-economic development. Unfortunately, the community members of Hogoro Ward in Kongwa District, Dodoma region, in Tanzania were missing this opportunity. Many people in Hogoro were limited by their inability to read and write, compounded by low farm productivity due to a lack of knowledge about sustainable farming practices that could promise greater prosperity.

Hogoro’s land also has high salinity levels, low yields, and deteriorating soil quality, which posed significant challenges to the farmers. These issues trapped them in a cycle of poverty, as their traditional farming methods could no longer sustain them. Illiteracy prevented them from accessing new agricultural methods or even following written instructions, leading to a steady decline in productivity and leaving many without hope.

For farmers like Livingstone Ndalu and Michael Mataluma, the Hogoro Community Learning Centre (CLC) has given them hope and change in their lives. Established and launched in July 2023 by DVV International in collaboration with Kongwa District Council, the Hogoro, the CLC serves as a crucial hub for adult education, integrating functional literacy, skills development, and vocational training. Jackson Mdima, the CLC coordinator, stated that since the project commenced in December 2022, there have been 217 participants organized into 16 groups comprising of 77 men and 140 women.

Livingstone and Michael are part of the Mshikamano Group, where they are taught by community facilitator Merry Mbogoni. At the CLC, they engage in literacy classes and hands-on training in sustainable agricultural practices, using a demonstration garden at the centre. Such organizations as MVIWATA, Seedland LTD, Farm Africa, and Farm Radio (Mkulima Mbunifu) provide training on agriculture and entrepreneurship. The training focuses on sustainable practices that are resilient to climate change and ensure high productivity. This demonstration garden not only serves as a practical learning ground but also produces crops that generate income to support some activities at the CLC.

Upon joining the literacy program in August 2023, Livingstone and Michael, who initially could not read or write, made remarkable progress. Within three months, both became literate, opening up new avenues for personal and professional growth. The literacy classes instilled confidence in them, enabling them to engage more actively in their community.

In addition to literacy, they were introduced to ecological farming techniques. These sustainable methods, which include the proper use of fertilizers, composting, and selecting the best local seeds, led to significant improvements in their farm yields. The practical application of these techniques in the demonstration plot reinforced their learning, providing immediate, tangible benefits.

The impact of the Hogoro CLC on Livingstone and Michael's lives is profound. Michael, who was initially reluctant to admit his illiteracy, now proudly reads and writes, contributing to his community with newfound confidence. His adoption of ecological farming techniques has revolutionised his agricultural practices.

We used to farm for three months, and harvesting was done within three weeks," Livingstone shares with a smile. "Now, we are currently harvesting up to six months.

Economically, this transformation is evident. Michael’s tomato harvest increased from 20-30 bags to 200 bags, showing the direct link between functional literacy and improved agricultural productivity. This increase in yield has not only enhanced their economic stability but also improved their overall quality of life. The success of Livingstone and Michael has inspired others in the community, who were initially hesitant, to join the CLC programmes, creating a ripple effect of literacy and productivity.

Livingstone and Michael are now among the champions of the programme. They teach others and share the benefits of literacy and sustainable farming. Their journey from not being able to read and write to becoming successful, productive farmers shows how education and skills development can bring about big changes.

Livingstone also highlights another significant benefit of the CLC to the community. The centre serves as a vital source of news and information, equipped with a television and speakers for announcements. Residents who do not have access to a television can come to the centre to listen to news reports, sports, and entertainment. Additionally, various advertisements and community announcements are broadcast through the speakers, keeping the community informed and connected.

The story of Livingstone and Michael shows how knowledge, skills and sustainable practices can change lives. At the Hogoro CLC, they learned to read and write and gained knowledge about farming. The centre is also a place for the community to come together and share and learn information. This initiative proves that with the right help and resources, communities can overcome poverty and create a better, more sustainable future. The success of the CLC in Hogoro shows how adult education can drive development and help people make positive changes in lives and communities.