Literacy as a contribution to socioeconomic inclusion: The case of a youth group from Namibe, Angola

Abstract

Educated youth is vitally important for the future of Angola. Youth illiteracy is one of the obstacles to greater socio-economic inclusion. The country is committed to intensifying literacy with the aim of eradicating this complex obstacle with multiple causes (historical, economic, social, cultural, political, etc.). This study aims to show how literacy is transforming the socio-economic inclusion perspectives of a group of young people in the province of Namibe. A bibliographic and documentary research was carried out. This was a case study of a youth group from Namibe, Angola. In the empirical phase, focus groups were applied in November 2021 to 22 young people (13-18 years old) in a class of beginners in literacy, in Moçâmedes (host municipality). The results showed that it is the desire for "functional literacy" for the acquisition of knowledge considered necessary to be able to function socioeconomically in this context. These young people, previously excluded from the school system, felt socially discriminated against, victims of prejudice and some verbal aggression. They decided to start studies to change this reality. Despite the poor infrastructural conditions, schools are motivated and "happier". They believe that this learning will increase their socio-economic inclusion in that specific context.

DOI:https://doi.org/10.56238/sevened2024.014-015