Population (approx.)16 millionLiteracy StatisticsOverall: 38.0%Male: 53.0%Female: 26.0%GNP Per Capita (US Dollars)$790Source: The World Bank Development Indicators, 1996; CIA World Fact Book 1997 |
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Country Report presented by Lubna Zain Saleh Basolaiman
The current National Illiteracy Eradication and Adult Education Strategy in Yemen aims to reduce the number of illiterates in Yemen by 5 million men and women in the 10-45 age group over the next 24 years. The current strategies for this campaign will be reviewed and discussed in an upcoming meeting in Sana'a on September 5, 1998, and are outlined as follows:
- To develop a closer relationship between the Illiteracy Eradication Organization of Yemen and counter-part organization in other Arab countries in order to share experiences and expertise;
- To exchange technical experience and expertise with other Arab states;
- To coordinate the activities and funding by Arab League Education, Culture and Sciences Organization (ALECSO), the Islamic Education, Culture and Sciences Organization, UNESCO (ISESCO), to maximize efforts and support for the literacy campaign; and
- To benefit from the experience of Arab organizations in the training and qualification of specialized literacy and adult education personnel and to collaborate with Arab and international projects in literacy to obtain technical support and backing for the campaign.
The Adult Education Organization in Yemen has a number of training centers, which provide basic and vocational skills training in such areas as carpentry, electricity, tailoring, and knitting. One such center is the Zabid Center for men and women. Established in 1978, the center's main objective is to teach basic literacy skills. The center's headquarters continues to provide vocational skills to learners, and there are now other centers in Al Fqia, Al Alatan, and Al Zabira. The Zabid Center obtained the support of several other organizations, such as Oxfam, in providing the necessary skills and services to the learners.
- Zabid Hospital agreed to train men and women in the area of first aid and to supply the center with essential medicines.
- The Rural Development Organization provided teachers and religious guides.
- Local communities provided funds for distinguished teachers and trainers.
- Oxfam supported the center by providing funds for purchasing a bus and equipment for the women's training.
The center's activities have been enhanced by a cultural library which
was established with the efforts of teachers, learners, and members of the
local community. The center has also prepared three wall magazines: Read,
Work, and Alhamira and organized several professional and cultural exhibitions.
INTERNATIONAL LITERACY
INSTITUTE