Literacy in the workplace - an initiative that transforms lives
Avipro has launched a project to help employees from Farming, Processing, and New Maurifoods Ltd (NML) overcome their difficulties in reading and writing. A remarkable story of transformation, this initiative coincided with International Literacy Day, celebrated on September 8. It is worth noting that in 2019, the first 12 NML employees joined a literacy program based on the same model and successfully earned their certificates. This experience laid the foundation for the new initiative.
Avipro employs individuals who struggle with reading and writing. Recognizing this, the company partnered with Caritas to set up Level 1 literacy courses, known as Basic Literacy. Nearly 20 employees from Farming, Processing, and NML volunteered to participate, demonstrating a strong desire for personal and professional growth.
The project spanned six months, with classes held once a week at Caritas in La Cure, Moka. Caroline Avrillon, Sustainability Officer at Avipro, highlights the success of the initiative, noting that employees remained committed throughout the program. "The courses have just ended, and we have already planned to include them in the next budget for another group of employees," she adds.
At Farming, employees who took part in the program are proud of their learning journey. But the impact of this transformative initiative extends beyond Farming. Soomantee, an employee at NML, firmly believes that learning is a lifelong process. "We continue to acquire knowledge throughout our lives. I am proud to be part of the NML family and grateful for the opportunity to expand my skills through this training," she says.
For Devi from Processing, it was an incredible experience. "Today, I can write. I have learned to be independent when I go to the bank, and I am always eager to learn more." Her colleague Anuska shares that she had always wanted to learn to read and write. "It was one of the greatest experiences of my life. I thank Avipro for giving me this chance, and I strongly encourage others to take advantage of this opportunity because it is never too late to learn."
Trainer Shanon Jean-Marie is delighted to have supported the learners. "From the beginning, I noticed their difficulties in comprehension, oral expression, and writing. Some of them would mix up letters and even numbers. However, with practice and perseverance, they made tremendous progress, and today, they can read and write much more easily. Their commitment to the classes was also remarkable. They listened attentively and participated actively. They developed strong speaking skills, particularly during our visits, where they introduced themselves without hesitation. I am extremely proud of their journey and determination."
These powerful testimonials illustrate the value of literacy in employees’ lives. Thanks to this initiative, they have acquired new skills, gained self-confidence, and are now better prepared to face both professional and personal challenges.