A Campaign aiming to help adults improve their English language reading and writing will launch in Yarrabah today.
Aboriginal not-for-profit, Literacy for Life Foundation, is coordinating the Yes, I Can! Campaign, which is led by the local community and funded by the Queensland Government.
The format is based on an innovative approach to teaching adult literacy that was developed in Cuba and has now been implemented in more than 30 countries across the globe.
Literacy for Life Foundation has been working with local Aboriginal communities, and adapting the method for use in Australia, since 2012. In that time over 250 Aboriginal adults have enrolled in and completed the lessons, significantly improving their English language literacy.
“Yes, I Can! works because it is owned, run and delivered by local people,” says Literacy for Life Foundation Executive Director, Jack Beetson.
Initial work has already begun, with a local Yarrabah team receiving training for the first phase of the Campaign. An official launch will take place on 28 May, 1pm at Wugu Nyambil front lawn.
Research indicates that raising adult literacy levels has a knock-on effect, helping to improve community health and housing, lifting school education outcomes and contributing to self-determination.
“We can maintain our spiritual values and beliefs while acquiring the necessary skills via the Literacy for Life Foundation Campaign to become independent and to empower ourselves,” says Nadine Cannon, Yarrabah Literacy for Life Foundation Coordinator.
The start date for the first class is Monday 7th June and everyone is encouraged to join. Each student takes part for six months, for two hours daily, three days per week. There is a catch-up class for those who miss lessons.
To sign up or find out more about classes phone 0412 505 249.
