The 2024 International Literacy Day (ILD) celebrations in Uganda, organized by the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development in collaboration with key partners like Asante Africa Foundation, took place from September 5th to 12th. This year’s theme, Promoting Multilingual Education: Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace, emphasized the importance of multilingual education in fostering social cohesion and socio-economic transformation. 

Pre-Event Engagement and Radio Talk Show

As part of the preparations, Asante Africa Foundation actively contributed to pre-event activities throughout the month, including storytelling, debates, and creative writing competitions. These activities showcased the enthusiasm and creativity of young learners across Uganda. In addition, a radio talk show aired on September 2nd featuring the principal Community and Development Officer from the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, along with Asante Africa’s Interim Country Manager, Deborah Namugenyi. They discussed critical issues such as gender disparities and health challenges affecting literacy acquisition, particularly focusing on how these barriers impact school-going children.

Two-Day Literacy Bootcamp (September 5th-6th)

The hybrid Literacy Bootcamp, part of the ILD celebrations, was held both in person and online, allowing wide participation from diverse educational institutions across Uganda. The bootcamp targeted students from early childhood centers, primary and secondary schools, and universities. The discussions revolved around promoting multilingual education to foster inclusivity and understanding, especially in Uganda’s linguistically diverse communities.

Highlights

The event opened with a keynote speech from Assistant Commissioner of Primary Education, Mr. Ikwap Robert, who emphasized the significance of multilingual education in creating social cohesion. His message underscored the idea that education in one’s mother tongue fosters deeper understanding and respect.

Throughout the day, young learners actively participated in activities showcasing linguistic diversity, including storytelling sessions, spelling bees, and poetry recitals. A standout performance came from Ayesiga Joseph, a young poet, who recited “My Language, My Identity” in both English and his native Runyoro-Rutooro, highlighting the deep connection between language and identity.

The second day of the bootcamp featured a panel discussion led by university and secondary school students. Favor, a Youth Livelihood Program alumnus, passionately argued that “literacy is not just about reading and writing—it’s about access to opportunities.” She advocated for the inclusion of digital literacy, noting how technology facilitates multilingual education by supporting language translation and bridging gaps in access to resources. Asante Africa’s Ed-Tech lead, Besigye Innocent, also presented on the importance of digital inclusion, demonstrating how technology can enhance both research and creativity in multilingual contexts.

Main ILD Event: September 12th, 2024

The main event took place at the Conference Center in Kampala, with a symposium that brought together government officials, educators, and stakeholders to discuss the future of literacy in Uganda. Associate Professor Willy Ngaka of Kyambogo University delivered a keynote address focusing on how multilingual education can drive socio-economic transformation by fostering unity and inclusivity. Testimonies from learners like Favor highlighted the impact of digital devices provided by Asante Africa Foundation, which have supported rural students in acquiring digital literacy skills, improving their performance in national examinations, and gaining access to resources in multiple languages.

The event concluded with an award ceremony where young learners who participated in pre-event activities received certificates of recognition. Many of these students had traveled from rural areas to Kampala, broadening their horizons by experiencing the capital city for the first time.

Achievements and Key Outcomes

Active Participation – 149 participants, including 28 young learners engaged in storytelling and creative writing, 37 in spelling bees, and 27 leaders who contributed to panel discussions and debates.
Collaboration and Partnerships – The event engaged 23 schools and involved 17 organizations, showcasing the power of collaboration in promoting literacy.
Promotion of Multilingual Education – Through activities and discussions, the event successfully highlighted the importance of multilingual literacy for social cohesion and peace.
Recognition of Digital Literacy – Asante Africa Foundation’s focus on digital literacy was featured in the first edition of the ILD magazine. 

In closing, Asante Africa Foundation reiterated its belief that education is a powerful tool for unlocking potential and transforming lives. Through sustained partnerships and innovative strategies, Uganda can ensure that every child, regardless of their linguistic or geographic background, has access to inclusive and quality education.