Task force on mission to use literacy to improve lives

he National Task Force on Literacy Education has launched community literacy clinics to reach underserved areas where reading and writing skills lag, as part of a strategy that will also help fight crime and poverty.

The clinics aim to bring critical literacy resources directly to communities, enhancing personal development and contributing to the nation’s sustained growth, according to the literacy promotion body.

“Where there is a dearth of literacy skills in the community, crime and poverty reside,” said task force chair Dr Sylvia Henry as she stressed that literacy is essential not only in schools but also as a community-driven asset supporting the health, educational, social, and economic welfare of society.

The community literacy clinics, being done in partnership with the Earthen Vessels Ministries International, will offer on-the-spot literacy support and screenings for individuals and groups, fostering community engagement through partnerships with educational institutions, local organisations, and government agencies.

These collaborations, Henry noted, will be critical in providing resources such as books, digital tools, and financial support, which will be donated to sustain literacy programmes. Retired educators, community volunteers, and sponsors will also be recruited to assist in expanding clinic services.

“Our mission is clear,” she said. “We want to provide opportunities for children and adults to be transformed through literacy in a way that contributes to their personal development and the sustained growth of Barbados.”

“Our interaction has strengthened communities and empowered persons to contribute to the social, economic, and cultural well-being of the community.”

Guided by research from UNESCO, which emphasises literacy as a means to “improve lives by expanding capabilities”, Henry further underscored that the task force’s objectives align with a wider global understanding of literacy as a foundation for poverty reduction, labour market participation, and health improvements.

Key operational questions will guide each clinic’s approach, such as identifying literacy deficits, formulating community-specific solutions, and measuring progress.

The task force aims to measure success by assessing improvements in the quality of life for families, creating lifelong learners, and strengthening community cohesion.

“Overall, we will examine the extent to which our literacy programmes have enhanced the quality of life for families and created lifelong learners,” Dr Henry noted, emphasising the importance of continuous progress evaluation.

For the National Task Force on Literacy Education, this initiative represents a significant investment in Barbados’ future, aiming to create a ripple effect of positive change.

“Our involvement has stimulated an awareness within the community that contributes to national development, sustainability, education access, economic growth, and social cohesion,” Henry said.

The first of the clinics is set for November 9 at the Clapham Community Centre in Christ Church. (SM)