In light of International Literacy Day this Sunday, the Ministry of Education has launched a new campaign aimed at adults wishing to acquire essential skills such as reading, writing, basic arithmetic and digital literacy.

An estimated 10 to 12 percent of adults in Luxembourg lack such skills.

The campaign, run by the Adult Education Service (SFA) within the Ministry of Education, is designed to encourage those affected by illiteracy to enrol in free courses. These aim to empower participants and help them engage more fully in both professional and social settings.

The campaign officially launched on Thursday during a thematic event in Esch-Belval, attended by over 100 participants including Claude Meisch, Minister of Education, as well as various international experts.

The free basic education courses are offered in French, German, and Portuguese, are held in the evenings, and are spread across the following locations to ensure accessibility:

  • Echternach
  • Esch-Belval
  • Ettelbruck
  • Luxembourg-Kirchberg
  • Mersch
  • Warken
  • Wiltz

At the same time, a dedicated helpline has been set up at 80 02 99 99, where interested callers will receive confidential guidance from specialists. More information can also be found on their official website, www.abcd.lu.

Christian Buchler, Director of Adult Education, explains that there is a wide range of profiles among Luxembourg's adult learners, including individuals who attended school here, but still struggle to read or write. "The adults who attend our courses left the school system many years ago, and are often older individuals. There is no age limit to join the classes," Buchler stresses.

Especially in recent years, efforts have increased to promote inclusion within schools and to support those who have dropped out. This new campaign thus also hopes to promote adult education through radio ads, posters, and video campaigns to facilitate access to the available resources.

Buchler also noted that while Luxembourg already offers many courses for adults, new ones will be introduced where demand emerges. "We are here to help people learn to write, read, calculate, or navigate digital tools, and are continuously adapting to meet the needs across the country".