Success in Senegal: How Adult Literacy Changes Lives
In the village of Ndiankha Youssoupha, Senegal, one mother’s determination to learn is changing not only her life but the future of her entire family. Ndeye Fatou Sow, a 35-year-old widow and small business owner, recently graduated from buildOn’s Adult Literacy Program, opening a world of opportunities to her.
Combating Illiteracy
Like many women of her generation in rural Senegal, Ndeye didn’t receive a formal education as a child. Instead of attending school, she spent her youth selling milk in neighboring communities. This early experience with commerce would later shape her future, but the lack of education left a lasting impact.
“I regret it a lot and I blame my parents for that,” Ndeye shares. “I’d love to get involved in everything that’s going on here in the village today, but I have had a lot of difficulties because in the past I couldn’t read, write, or do arithmetic. I even needed help to use a cell phone.”
From Struggle to Success
After losing her husband ten years ago, Ndeye took on the responsibility of supporting her children’s education through her small sugar business. Recognizing that literacy and numeracy skills could improve her business operations, she enrolled in buildOn’s Adult Literacy Program once we started classes in Ndiankha Youssoupha.
The impact was immediate and profound. “I’m doing well now because I can read and write,” she explains. “This is very useful, especially for my business. My participation in this program has made me more aware of the importance of education.”
Building a Better Future: A Mother’s Vision for Her Children
Perhaps the most significant change is Ndeye’s ability to actively participate in her children’s education. Understanding the value of learning firsthand has strengthened her commitment to her children’s academic future.
“That’s why I spare no effort to keep my children in school,” she says with determination. “I want them to continue studying right through to university, and then each of them can go on to whatever profession they choose.”
The Ripple Effect of Adult Education
The Adult Literacy participants in Ndiankha Youssoupha put their newfound literacy, numeracy, and business skills into practice with buildOn-sponsored business grants. With these funds, each participant had the opportunity to start a new business, such as selling produce or animal husbandry. This forms the basis for a thriving business and future financial success.
Ndeye’s story exemplifies the transformative power of adult education in economically-developing communities. Through buildOn’s Adult Literacy Program, participants like Ndeye gain more than just reading and writing skills—they acquire the tools to:
- Manage their businesses effectively
- Support their children’s education
- Participate actively in their communities
- Build financial independence
- Create sustainable change for future generations
Across the countries buildOn partners with, there are countless women just like Ndeye waiting for a chance to transform their lives through education. It’s up to us to give them that chance!
Want to help fund our transformational Adult Literacy Programs? Consider making a tax-deductible donation to support buildOn today.