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Friendship Education Programme from Bangladesh wins UNESCO Confucius Prize for Literacy 2023
In a world marked by constant change and evolution, literacy remains a cornerstone of progress and empowerment. The UNESCO International Literacy Prizes 2023 honour organizations that have demonstrated remarkable dedication to advancing literacy, even amidst a rapidly evolving global landscape. Among these distinguished laureates stands Friendship, a beacon of hope for remote and climate-vulnerable communities in Bangladesh through their "Friendship Education Programme: Empowering remote and climate Vulnerable communities with digital literacy."
Friendship embarked on its education programme in 2006, driven by a vision to provide primary education to remote, climate-vulnerable riverine islands in Bangladesh. This initiative aimed to ensure the fundamental right to education for communities often overlooked. The programme's evolution was fueled by the unique challenges posed by these erosion-prone landscapes.
The introduction of adult education became necessary as many of these communities had no literate individuals. Adults, grappling with illiteracy, faced difficulties in daily activities like market transactions and accessing vital information and services. Moreover, their lack of literacy posed a significant risk to the quality of their children's education. Thus, Friendship launched its Adult Education component, reflecting its commitment to comprehensive community development.
Technology soon became a key ally in this journey. In areas where qualified teachers were scarce, Friendship adopted an offline video-based learning approach, leveraging technology to bridge the education gap. Accomplished teachers' recorded lessons were played in island classrooms, ensuring quality education reached the most remote areas.
Friendship's commitment to sharing successful practices inspired them to collaborate with another Bangladeshi NGO, allowing them to replicate the secondary education model, demonstrating that true success lies in inspiring others to serve underprivileged communities.
Friendship's Education programme caters to over 32,000 students, including children in climate-vulnerable areas, dropouts, out-of-school youth and adults, and Rohingya children. Their holistic approach acknowledges the ever-evolving world's demands, integrating literacy with life skills. The programme fosters adaptability, preparing individuals to navigate and contribute to the modern world effectively.
By offering skill-based training to school graduates and dropouts, Friendship opens doors to various industries. They also support students in excelling at competitive university entrance exams and pursuing higher education. Additionally, they establish internet and computer centers, enabling students to engage with peers in Europe, promoting discussions on vital topics like climate change, ethics, and values.
Providing equal learning opportunities
Friendship understands that peace and sustainability are intertwined with poverty alleviation and women's empowerment. Their programme provides equal educational opportunities, focusing on female students. Graduates find improved employment opportunities, reducing poverty and enhancing women's empowerment.
The integration of a code of ethics into their curriculum is central to Friendship's approach. They instill values like dignity, honesty, commitment, and humility, nurturing better individuals and responsible citizens. Beyond their own schools, Friendship's values are extended to government schools in certain districts, further promoting ethical behavior.
Friendship's commitment to inclusivity is also commendable. Approximately 55% of their students are female, defying gender biases prevalent in their target communities. They prioritize admission for at least one child from each household, ensuring that as many children as possible access quality education. Moreover, they actively work towards making schools disability-friendly.
The programme's impact stories speak volumes. What was once an area with no literate individuals has produced graduates entering prestigious institutions and unions and representing climate-vulnerable communities on global platforms. Their work empowers communities to dream and achieve against all odds.
Friendship's journey is a testament to the power of determination and support. From literacy deserts to international platforms, their students have shown that even the most disadvantaged communities are capable of remarkable achievements. As we celebrate International Literacy Day, Friendship's story serves as an inspiring reminder that education knows no boundaries, and with the right opportunities, we can empower individuals to transform their lives and contribute to a more peaceful and sustainable world.
