As the world prepares to celebrate International Literacy Day, the Dodoma region of Tanzania is already buzzing with activity, showcasing the nation's deep-seated commitment to Adult and Non Formal Education (ANFE). The International Literacy Day celebrations recently held in Kondoa Town,on August 18, 2025, served as a powerful testament to the transformative power of literacy. The theme for 2025, “Kukuza Kisomo katika Zama za Kidigitali kwa Maendeleo Endelevu ya Taifa letu” which translates to Promoting Literacy in the Digital Age for Sustainable National Development, framed the week's events, highlighting the importance of adapting to the digital era while pursuing national development goals.

The celebration brought together a diverse range of stakeholders, from government officials to learners themselves, all united by the common goal of eradicating illiteracy, poverty, and disease. In his address, the Dodoma Regional Commissioner highlighted the government's significant investment in education, including the construction of classrooms, sanitation facilities, and teacher housing. This commitment is further demonstrated by the variety of programs that provide alternative educational pathways for those who, for various reasons, were unable to complete their formal schooling.

The event showcased the impressive reach and impact of different ANFE programmes as it was reported by the RC. In the Dodoma region alone, there are

• 1,320 learners in the Integrated Community-Based Adult Education (ICBAE) programme, which integrates literacy with skills in agriculture, animal husbandry, and entrepreneurship.
• 571 students in the MEMKWA programme, which provides a primary education equivalent for out-of-school children and youth.
• 927 students, the majority of whom are girls, have been re-enrolled in secondary education through the SEQUIP-AEP program, a special initiative to help students complete their studies.
• 240 young people are enrolled in the Integrated Program for Out of School Adolescents (IPOSA) program, which offers vocational training in fields like masonry, electricity, cooking, and tailoring in Kondoa Town and Chamwino.
• 462 students are receiving training in various trades at the two Folk Development Colleges (FDCs) in Mpwapwa and Kondoa.

These initiatives are not just about numbers; they are about changing lives. They equip citizens with the skills they need to thrive in a modern economy, from improved farming techniques to business management and digital literacy.

As a long-standing partner in Tanzania's education sector, DVV International is proud to support these efforts. Our work, guided by a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MoEST) and the President's Office, Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG), focuses on strengthening the adult education system. In the Dodoma region, we are particularly proud of our support for the establishment of Community Learning Centres (CLCs) in Kongwa and Mpwapwa districts. These CLCs are becoming vibrant hubs for learning and community development, offering a range of services from literacy classes to vocational training and entrepreneurship support. The success of the CLCs in places like Hogoro Ward, where farmers have seen their harvests increase tenfold after learning new agricultural techniques, is a powerful example of how adult education can break the cycle of poverty.

The celebrations in Dodoma are a clear indication that Tanzania is not just observing International Literacy Day, but is actively working to make the promise of education for all a reality. The government's leadership, combined with the dedication of educators and the enthusiasm of learners, is creating a brighter future for all Tanzanians. DVV International remains a committed partner in this important journey.