Describes and critically analyzes adult literacy training efforts in Zambia from 1945 to 1986. Offers the integrated small-scale approach as a more beneficial and cost effective means of training. Suggests that a grass roots method which attacks illiteracy both across and within the community will lead to the most effective program. (KO)

Presents Botswana's experience with a national literacy program as a model for the understanding of policies and implementation of national literacy programs. Concludes that, although the Botswana National Literacy Programme represents a significant effort in adult literacy education, a rapid increase in the literacy rate is unlikely. (KO)

Summarizes results of UNESCO's review of estimates and predictions of literacy in light of new data and revised methodology. Analyzes past trends in literacy, illiteracy rates, and prospects for future development. Suggests that the target year 2000 seems unrealistic for those most disadvantaged. Includes breakdowns for disparities by sex, age…

Discusses problems in meeting the goal of education for all in developing countries. Includes lack of teachers and instructional material. Describes financial requirements, trends in resource allocation, and external aid for primary education. Suggests external donors concentrate on support for building national capacity, weighting funding for…

Today more children and their parents in developing countries are without any educational opportunities because of the expense and elitist character of traditional education programs. Examples from Bangladesh show how educational opportunities can be broadened by using facilities more intensively and in innovative ways. (Author/IS)

Suggests that the means to eliminate illiteracy are available in Africa if nations devise and implement a strategy of action based on an effective political will and adopting a methodical, rational approach. Discusses the current situation, negative factors, repercussions on development, and future demands. Argues that promoting basic education…

Asks who benefits from illiteracy to reveal the political implications of literacy's empowering potential. Observes literacy's ultimate capacity to overturn power structures and redistribute wealth and resources at international, national, and local levels. Relates the literacy problem to colonialism and its legacy. Offers examples of literacy…

Discusses problems facing developing nations in achieving UNESCO's goal of equality of educational opportunity. Mentions continuing inequality in literacy rates between developed and developing countries, and between the sexes. Describes functional illiteracy. Blames lack of progress on rates of demographic growth, pace of educational expansion,…

Links literacy for women with justice and empowerment. Cites that 70 percent of illiterates are female. Stresses that this statistic reflects the strength of patriarchal attitudes and male-dominated literacy campaigns. Presents three case studies to show cultural differences in women's literacy issues. Suggests strategies for achieving justice…

Discusses the status of women's education throughout the world. Describes an increased access to education, progress through legislation, and women's studies. Emphasizes the concentration of women in education in the lower grades and teaching roles rather than in higher education or top administrative levels. Addresses problems such as sex role,…