Enhancing youth literacy in Rwanda

Rwanda's literacy rate has made significant strides, currently standing at over 70%, up from 64% in 2002. While the country is making efforts to promote literacy through reading workshops and trainings at community levels, a recent study revealed that close to two-thirds of parents are unaware of the existence of these workshops. Gilbert Rwabigwi, the Founder of the Youth Literacy Organization (YouLI), a youth-led non-profit organization, is dedicated to advancing literacy and learning in Rwanda. In a recent interview on CNBC Africa, Rwabigwi discussed the importance of focusing not only on reading but also on writing to enhance literacy levels. He emphasized that writing is a crucial skill that involves critical thinking, organizing ideas, and effectively communicating thoughts. Rwabigwi acknowledged that transitioning from a Francophone to an Anglophone system in Rwanda has been relatively smooth due to prior exposure to English content through various mediums. He highlighted the importance of community action and the role of social media in promoting literacy among youth. YouLI conducts writing workshops, campaigns in schools, and mentors young writers to improve their skills and explore publishing opportunities. Rwabigwi underscored the need for relevant content to enhance literacy levels and called for greater investment in teaching comprehension and critical thinking. While Rwanda has made progress in improving infrastructure and educational resources, there is still a need for more content that resonates with the local population. Rwabigwi emphasized the link between literacy and employability, noting that advancing literacy levels goes beyond basic reading and writing skills. To improve employability, there is a need to focus on comprehension and the ability to question and analyze information. He called for increased support and investment in promoting writing and content creation to enrich the reading culture. Rwabigwi highlighted that the true essence of reading lies in learning and intellectual growth, emphasizing the importance of understanding the content and its practical application in various aspects of life. As Rwanda continues its efforts to enhance literacy and learning, organizations like YouLI play a crucial role in advocating for writing skills and content creation to cultivate a culture of critical thinking and knowledge sharing. By addressing the gaps in literacy and focusing on comprehensive skill development, Rwanda can empower its youth and build a more literate and intellectually vibrant society.