Since many char dwellers still cannot read or write at a functional level, as pat of our integrated, holistic approach to education, in 2007, we initiated our Adult Education Project initially with 10 learning centres in 10 chars of Gaibandha district. Classes are held in the evenings so that regular income generating activities and daily work are not compromised. This programme has been extended to other chars. Female adults, male adults, and adolescents are the three different groups enrolled in the programme. After completion of the eight month course, adult students are able to handle daily activities with greater ease such as, carry out business transactions, write letters and comprehend written messages. After the course adolescent students usually enrol in the vocational training programme. Without completing the functional literacy programme, adolescents are cannot enrol in the vocational training programme. At present a total of 300 adults - an average of 30 adults per school - are part of this programme.
The Adult Education Project will increase char dwellers’ literacy and awareness, and encourage them to send their children to school. The vocational training is designed to help them improve their incomes and reduce poverty.