Learners show off their certificates after graduating

Bible Society of Kenya held a colorful graduation ceremony for learners in Turkana County who graduated from the Literacy for Women in Africa programme. This was the third cohort to graduate and the learners were overjoyed because they had acquired skills that are useful in their lives.

The 339 learners were determined to learn despite challenges experienced in the County including; harsh weather conditions, low literacy levels, poverty, and cultural practices. The learners consistently attended classes and were able to learn basic reading and writing in the Turkana language.

There has been a great transformation experienced through this programme as testified by the learners and teachers. Learners testified that they could assist their children in their studies, run their businesses better, use their mobile phones, and live-in harmony with each other. There is also growth in Church attendance as most of them can read the Turkana Bible while some have earned leadership positions e.g., youth leaders in the society because they are now empowered.

Through this programme I have learned how to read, write, and also read the Turkana Bible. I am running my business better because I have known how to keep my records. Our community was left behind in education for a long time but now we are enlightened. Thank you BSK for bringing this programme to us. Eunice Askuku, learner Lokaparparai class

I used to look at the Bible and would not read it because I did not know how to read. Since I started learning in the literacy programme, I can read the Bible in an orderly manner and follow preaching while in Church and during my own Bible study. Thank you BSK for allowing us to learn. Steve Malakal, learner Kalokol class

The Government through the ministry of adult education in Turkana County will register interested graduands in the formal education in joining grades 1,2 and 3 respectively after they sit for the ACE (Adult and Continuing Education) proficiency test. This will enable learners to learn English, Kiswahili, and Arithmetic. The learners will also participate in the post-literacy program where they will interact with short storybooks that will enhance their reading capacity skills.

We thank the teachers who have worked tirelessly to ensure learners acquire skills and education in their mother tongue. Many of them are now enlightened and dare to forge ahead even as they get inspiration from the Bible.

We desire to see many lives transformed through this programme as it will lead to better standards of living among the Turkana community at large. We are grateful to our donors for empowering our brothers and sisters in Turkana County.