“Literacy as a lever for sustainable development and gender equality,” the minister emphasized, as quoted by the newspaper Haiti Libre.

She pointed out that teaching reading and writing is one of the points on the Sustainable Development Goals agenda. Without literacy, there can be no civic participation, access to employment, or sustainable development, she stressed.

Gender equality begins with access to education, and a literate women can defend their rights, protect the family, create wealth, and participate in the decisions that shape the future of the country, Saint Jean emphasized.

This is a strategic tool that can facilitate women’s civic and political participation, but to move forward, it is vital to design programs adapted to the realities of Haitian women.

She added that training community instructors and creating accessible and safe learning centers are important, especially for those living in rural areas.

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