In preparation for International Literacy Day on September 8, 2025 the world prepared to honor the importance of literacy in shaping lives and communities. As part of the pre-activities, Unbound Kampala, in partnership with the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development and the Rakai District Local Government, collaborated with over 500 adult learners from the Integrated Community Learning for Wealth Creation (ICOLEW) program to celebrate literacy under the theme “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era.”

The pre-event happened on 2^nd September in Kakoma Village, which is a central hub for community empowerment groups (CEGs) from the two parishes of Lwanda Subcounty, Rakai District. The celebration highlighted the achievements of over 502 adult learners in the Integrated Community Learning for Wealth Creation (ICOLEW) program. Learners from eight Community Empowerment Groups proudly showed their new skills in reading, writing, mathematics, and record-keeping. They also presented practical projects such as tailoring, craft-making, soap production, baking, poultry rearing, and kitchen gardening which demonstrated how literacy can lead to sustainable livelihoods.

The highlight of the day was Rose's testimony, an ICOLEW graduate. She was once unable to read and write, but now she runs her tailoring business with confidence. Like many parents in Lwanda Subcounty, she faced challenges that limited her ability to fully participate in economic activities and provide for her family. Thanks for the scholarship from Unbound Kampala, she improved her skills and talked about how learning to read and vocational training have changed her life.

“With the basic literacy, numeracy, and now tailoring skills, my life will never be the same. I can make money out of what I have learned, and my family enjoys improved living standards.”

Rose’s story is one example of how ICOLEW is bridging the gap between literacy and livelihoods. The program not only empowers learners with education but also equips them with practical skills that open doors to economic independence and dignity. The day was filled with inspiring activities that brought the theme of literacy to life. It started with a literacy run, where participants proudly wrote the Luganda alphabet and showed their understanding skills, a strong symbol of progress and determination. Colorful exhibitions of crafts, foods, and household items filled the space, reflecting creativity and skill. These showcased that literacy is not only about reading and writing but also about creating pathways to better lives. The celebration wrapped up with heartfelt recognition of facilitators and partners. Their tireless efforts continue to support adult education and open doors for learners. Together, these moments highlighted the true impact of literacy which is empowering individuals, strengthening communities, and transforming lives.

The Guest of Honor, Ms. Akello Harriet, Principal Literacy Officer from the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development (MGLSD), commended the strong partnership between Unbound Kampala, Rakai District Local Government, and the MGLSD. She highlighted that this collaboration led to the rebuilding of the Community Learning Centre in Lwanda Subcounty, the hub where Unbound Kampala runs the ICOLEW program. According to her, these improvements would “make ICOLEW activities more efficient and provide adult learners with a better learning environment.”

Addressing the learners directly, Ms. Akello emphasized the importance of keeping pace with the digital era:

“I encourage you to embrace technology and do your best to acquire digital skills and tools so you can keep up with this changing and transforming world.”

After the pre-event in Rakai, Unbound Kampala participated in the national celebration of International Literacy Day 2025 on September 8 at the Presidential Auditorium in the Office of the Prime Minister in Kampala. The event brought together important stakeholders, literacy advocates, development partners, and government officials for an engaging symposium that focused on the need for digital inclusion in literacy programs. The symposium included strong testimonies from both adult and young learners, offering personal insights into how literacy programs are changing lives and communities. The celebration ended with a joint Call to Action, encouraging all participants to strengthen efforts in promoting literacy in the digital age and ensure that no one is left behind in the push for a more literate and empowered society.