National Meeting in Maputo Advocates for Enhanced Adult Education

By Dyson Mthawanji

In a pivotal gathering held in Maputo from February 15th to 16^th February, 2024, 105 participants convened to deliberate on the state and future of Adult Learning and Education (ALE) in Mozambique. This national meeting, attended by representatives from various sectors, aimed to address critical challenges and chart a course for the advancement of adult education across the country.

The attendees, hailing from diverse backgrounds, included government officials, educators, Non –Governmental Organisations representatives, and international partners. Notable participants included UNESCO, Mozambican UNESCO Commission, DVV International, VSO, Alfamoz, Visão Juvenil, Associação Progresso, Eduardo Mondlane University, and Pedagogic University.

The meeting commenced with an inspiring opening speech by Dr. Augusto Banzo, the Vice Minister of Education and Human Development, who emphasized the importance of active participation and thorough discussion to tackle the multifaceted issues surrounding adult education. Dr. Banzo welcomed all attendees and urged them to engage fully in the proceedings.

One of the highlights of the gathering was the presentation by José Mucuapa, Country Director of DVV International, who shared insights on the implementation of Integrated Adult Education (IAE) and underscored the significance of aligning initiatives with the recommendations of the Marrakesh Framework. Mucuapa also emphasized the importance of peace education and advocated for the utilization of existing school infrastructure for adult education purposes.

Mucuapa said: “"In harnessing the power of Integrated Adult Education, we are not only advancing literacy but weaving a fabric of sustainable development. Our commitment lies in aligning our efforts with the Marrakesh Framework, ensuring inclusivity and relevance in every step. Let us remember, peace education is not a luxury but a necessity, and leveraging existing school infrastructure for adult education is paramount to our collective progress."

Key outcomes emerged from the deliberations, signaling a collective commitment to advancing adult education in Mozambique. These included Innovative Approaches. Participants recognized the need for innovative approaches to ALE, particularly through the implementation of Integrated Adult Education programs.

Acknowledging the resource constraints facing adult education initiatives, stakeholders called for increased investment in ALE to meet the growing demand for educational opportunities among adults. Furthermore, the Ministry of Education and Human Development announced a substantial increase in the literacy teachers' allowance, from 9 Euros to 22 Euros, effective from 2024.

During the meeting, several provinces, including Inhambane, Cabo Delgado, Niassa, Zambezia, and Tete, highlighted the lack of partners in the ALE field. These provinces expressed a desire to forge partnerships to enhance adult education initiatives in their respective regions.

The meeting culminated with a closing speech delivered by Mrs. Antuia Soverano, the National Directorate of Adult Education, emphasizing the importance of sustained collaboration and concerted efforts to address the identified challenges and opportunities in adult education.

As Mozambique continues its journey towards inclusive and equitable education for all, the outcomes of this national meeting serve as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for transformative action in the realm of adult learning and education.