The Ministry’s “Small Library” project was initiated in an attempt to help increase literacy in developing countries in Africa. A project that began with the foundation of two libraries in the Ghanaian towns of Abokobi and Danfa has now grown into an extensive network of 17 libraries built with aid from the ministry.
These libraries in developing nations like Mozambique, Tanzania and Ethiopia serve as an essential platform for learning, offering a variety of educational activities, such as adult literacy and economic classes. Many of the libraries have permanent teaching staff, and at some, students are provided light for studying from solar energy.
| Photo courtesy of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism |
The initiative derives from the fact that Korea once was aid recipient after being devastated by the Korean War. Korea became the first former aid recipient to become a donor nation in less than a half century, and believes that education was the driving force behind its miraculous economic development.
The country is now trying to return the favor by providing effective aid to developing nations. The programs have already shown signs of success, and the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) score of students at Danfa Methodist Basic School in Ghana improved from 80% in 2007 to 97% in 2009.
The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism aims to establish 15 more libraries on the African continent this year.
Korea.net Staff Writer
