Paulo Freire Institute
According to the latest national census the percentage of people in Malta who find difficulty in reading and writing is 11.3%. There are areas in Malta where the problem is more pronounced. Parents are their children’s first educators. In order to encourage children to improve their reading and writing skills it is vital to empower their parents with important skills. For these reasons the Society of Jesus in Malta decided to establish an institute for the promotion of literacy and community development, under the name of Paulo Freire Institute.
The following are the main activities presently carried out at the Institute:
Non-Formal Educational Activities for children
Around 40 youth volunteers organise a programme for around 100 children. The programme consists of a series of educational, creative and recreational activities aimed at children in social risk. It runs during the summer months, ending with a talent show with the full participation of the children. During the winter months, a similar programme is organized on a weekly basis for a smaller number of children.
Literacy Project for children.
An average of fifteen children attend weekly literacy sessions on a one-to-one basis. Children with learning difficulties are referred to an expert who diagnoses their learning difficulties.
Literacy for Employment Project.
Three, four month long courses for a total of 45 unemployed adult participants are organized
together with the ETC and the Literacy Unit of the University of Malta. Tutors employed at the
University coordinate and prepare the programme. They are supported by another 20 ex teachers
and ex heads who ensure a one to one ratio with the participants. Sessions are held three times
a week. Each session is two hours long, with a coffee break in between.
This course has been a great success such that persons who had attended the basic literacy course are now attending another more advanced six month long course twice a week. They have lessons in Maltese, English and Computer skills.
Lend a Hand
At the moment this programme consists of a weekly one to one literacy session on Thursday evenings for working adults. There are 15 adults attending this programme.
Mother’s groups
Basic empowerment courses are organized every year for women. These later become leaders and push for positive change in the community. Many become involved in voluntary work at the primary schools at Zejtun.
Community Social Work
At present a part time social worker sees about 14 clients. The needs are various, but sub-standard houses, illiterate and unemployed people are among the most urgent needs conferred. There is also a percentage of the population who is living in poverty due to disability, or illness. Single mothers, including widows are also a significant proportion of people who seek the social worker’s service.