Reading and writing difficultiesBetween 2,000 and 4,000 adults in Luxembourg struggle with illiteracy

Illiteracy, or analphabetism, refers to those who are unable to read or write properly. In Luxembourg it is difficult to estimate the exact number of those suffering from illiteracy. This is broadly due to the Grand Duchy's complex linguistic situation, which has consequently meant that no real studies have been carried out on the topic. But around 4 to 7% of the population is estimated to be illiterate, as is the case in neighbouring countries.

Those affected can turn to the SFA (Adult Education Service) which offers basic courses in Wiltz, Mersch, Ettelbruck, Echternach, Differdange and Luxembourg City. Pupils attend for numerous reasons. The 1,200 people who attended courses in 2019 were from varied backgrounds, including:

• People who had attended regular education but did not possess adequate competencies for their daily and professional lives;
• Those who spoke one of Luxembourg's national languages, but were unable to attend school for sufficient amounts of time;
• Non-natives who could not attend school or did not attend for sufficient time;
• People with learning difficulties.

RTL Luxembourg spoke to 30 year old Manuel Martins, who explained the barriers he encountered day to day and how he is working to overcome them. He spoke of topics ranging from letters to road signs, and his dependency on other people to help him understand them.

Martins came to Luxembourg aged eight and attended school regularly, but struggled to master reading and writing. He was never diagnosed with learning difficulties - something he said he regrets. At school he did his exams orally, but said he felt he could have received more support which would have helped him later in life.
For more information on the Adult Education Service, contact the service on 80024488 or email sfa@men.lu.