Limited Access to Education for Older Persons
Many older persons in Kibera grew up in a time when access to education was either limited or entirely unavailable. As a result, some never had the opportunity to learn basic reading, writing, or numeracy skills. This lack of education affects their daily lives—making it difficult to read important information such as medical prescriptions, sign official documents, or even engage in financial transactions independently. In a world that is increasingly dependent on literacy, digital communication, and formal procedures, older persons who missed out on education often feel excluded and disempowered.
Providing Adult Literacy Programs (Gumbaru) at KDCCE
The Kibera Day Care Center for the Elderly (KDCCE) is addressing this challenge by offering adult literacy education, often referred to as Gumbaru. Through these classes, older persons are given a second chance to learn in a supportive and respectful environment. The program provides:
✅ Basic Literacy Training – Helping seniors learn how to read, write, and understand simple texts.
✅ Numeracy Skills – Enabling them to manage money, read price tags, and handle financial transactions.
✅ Health Literacy – Teaching them how to read medical prescriptions, understand health warnings, and follow doctors’ instructions.
✅ Digital Awareness – Introducing them to basic technology so they can navigate mobile money services and communicate with loved ones.
By equipping older persons with these essential skills, KDCCE is helping to restore their confidence, independence, and sense of belonging in a society that often overlooks them.
Support Literacy for Older Persons
Education is a right at every stage of life. Let’s work together to ensure that older persons in Kibera receive the learning opportunities they deserve. You can help by:
📚 Volunteering – If you have teaching skills, consider offering your time to teach literacy classes.
💙 Donating – Support the initiative by providing books, writing materials, or financial contributions.
📢 Spreading Awareness – Share this message to advocate for adult literacy and the dignity of older persons.
Together, we can ensure that no one is left behind, regardless of age.