Beyond reading and writing: What ULLAS says adult literacy means
The ULLAS program in India is redefining adult literacy by focusing on practical life skills like banking, digital tasks, and documentation rather than just basic reading and writing. The initiative relies on community volunteers to help individuals gain independence.
Why it matters
Redefining literacy to include functional life skills is essential for economic inclusion and social empowerment in developing regions.
Half a year ago, Rakesh Pradhan, a 26-year-old private lodge manager from Malisahi village in Odisha’s Boudh district, could not write his own name. Today, he signs documents instead of leaving a thumb impression. He can send simple text messages, perform basic calculations in his head and navigate everyday tasks that once required someone else’s help.
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“A literate person is someone who can sign their name, fill out forms, access banking services, perform basic online tasks and prepare their biodata,” Mr. Pradhan says.
For him, literacy is not measured by a certificate. It is the ability to sign his own name without assistance, read everyday labels and understand bank documents on his own.
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