Phoenix in the Ashes: Adult Literacy in the Commonwealth Caribbean

Abstract

This monograph explores the literacy problem in Commonwealth Caribbean countries, and highlights research in the region that underscores the seriousness of the problem of illiteracy. Some of the causes of the illiteracy problem are examined and a case study is presented of the functional literacy of out-of-school youth (OSY) in Guyana. This study showed that only a small minority of the OSY is functionally literate, with the majority achieving at a moderate level of functional literacy. Statistically significant differences in achievement in functional literacy according to gender, highest level of education attained, ethnicity, and employment status are reported. Drawing on the imagery of the legendary phoenix, the monograph provides suggestion on how adult education, particularly adult literacy, can be regenerated from the ashes. These include the need to 1) recognise illiteracy is a problem in the region; 2) use more reliable and valid methods for measuring adult literacy so that more accurate information can be given to the international databases; and 3) adopt a more holistic approach to educational planning, which embraces adult and continuing education and gives the latter a more dynamic role in national development. The monograph underscores the importance of political will if the problem of illiteracy is to be addressed, and stresses the need for opportunities for all persons of varying levels of literacy to improve their literacy skills, in order to keep abreast with the changing demands of increasingly technological societies.