During a pivotal meeting in 2018, women leaders from the Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Central African Republic (ELC-CAR) emphasized that women’s literacy was a top priority. They believed prioritizing literacy for women and girls would enhance their quality of life by creating income generating opportunities and by promoting dignity. This discussion led to a literacy program pilot project for 80 women and girls in the cities of Bouar, Gallo, and Baboua.

The one-year pilot started this year, and our contact Jean Paul recently reported, “I am very impressed by the dynamism and motivation of the young girls and women.” He also expressed that while participants mourn their missed opportunity to learn to read at a young age, they are determined to make up for lost time.

Pilot programs always come with great learning opportunities. Jean Paul let us know that many women couldn’t attend sessions during busy agricultural periods, because women in CAR are deeply involved with farming and needed to prioritize planting and harvesting. The women and girls wanted to continue learning but also needed to provide for their families.

He has suggested lightening the future program schedule during busy farming periods, so that women aren’t forced to choose between learning and supporting their families.

According to Jean Paul, the current participants wish to continue the program in 2025. In fact, many women and girls from other cities have reached out and requested similar programs closer to them. Renewing the project and expanding to other cities will depend upon sustained financial support and prayers from partners like you. 

“The women, through me, say thank you for this project that values them...Be blessed for the work you do for the valorization and dignity of women.”

Learn more about the literary program