In 1962, when Algeria became independent, it set up a huge literacy programme. More than 85 percent of the population was illiterate, and despite considerable investment and progress in education, low levels of literacy remain a challenge today. As part of the Millennium Development Objectives and the United Nations Literacy Decade, and having already made major educational reforms, the government established a national strategy aimed at halving illiteracy.  

As a part of the strategy, IQRAA, the Algerian Literacy Association, launched a major programme known as AFIF (Alphabetisation, Formation et Insertion des Femmes) Literacy, Training and Employment for Women.

The programme has made a significant contribution to combating illiteracy and improving the socioeconomic status of women and girls in Algeria. Each year, more than 130,000 students receive literacy teaching, and 2,500 women aged 16 to 35 receive specific skills training as part of the AFIF scheme, including dressmaking, embroidery, weaving, silk painting, hairdressing, and information technology.

The non-literacy education places a particular emphasis on social issues, and this is reflected in the significant literature that has been produced as a result of the project. This includes a series of educational brochures and audio-visual productions on subjects such as family planning, HIV-AIDS prevention, conflict resolution, citizenship, the environment, and the family code. Most recently, the organisation has published a manual on prisoners’ rights and responsibilities.

The AFIF project has allowed women in the regions concerned to set up profitable businesses, with a system of loans enabling them to buy the equipment they need. The repayments allow other women to obtain loans and buy equipment.

More information about the tremendous work of this association in the link below