In the heart of Mungamba, a vibrant health area in a rural part of the Democratic Republic of Congo in Kasai Province, Kamonia Territory, lives Madam Tshibi Tshitambala Josephine, a 65-year-old woman with nine children whose story is a testament to the transformative power of education. Tshibi Tshitambala’s life was marked by early marriage and financial difficulties, and she lacked the basic education that many take for granted. But their recent successes paint a picture of hope and resilience, thanks to the intervention of ADRA Bureka-II project funded by USAID/BHA Numeracy and Literacy Program.
Tshibi Tshitambala Josephine’s early years were marked by adversity. She was born into a family of limited means and was married at a young age, which is common practice in her community. As a result, Tshibi Tshitambala’s missed out on formal education as the constraints of her circumstances stifled her potential. For decades, she lived with the regret of not being able to read or write, which hindered her ability to fully engage in her community and support her family the way she wanted.
However, Tshibi Tshitambala’s life took a significant turn when Bureka-II started a literacy program in her village. This initiative aimed to empower adults who, like Tshibi Tshitambala were denied educational opportunities earlier in life. The aim of the program was clear: to intensify literacy and numeracy training for women, giving them new literacy and numeracy skills and strengthening their financial management skills.
At first, Tshibi Tshitambala’s hesitated. The thought of returning to a classroom after so many years was daunting. But driven by a desire to change her life and be a role model for her family, she took the bold step of enrolling in the program. The courses were tailored to adults with different learning needs and speeds, and Tshibi Tshitambala’s found herself in a supportive environment where she could learn at her own pace.
The program taught Tshibi Tshitambala’s essential skills. She learned to read and write simple sentences and, most importantly, to write her own name – a milestone that filled her with great pride. These skills may seem fundamental to some, but for Tshibi Tshitambala Josephine, they represented a newfound independence and self-determination. One of the most remarkable aspects of Tshibi Tshitambala Josephine’s journey is how her newfound literacy skills have positively impacted her family. Since Tshibi Tshitambala can read and write, she takes on the role of a tutor for her grandchildren. This role has allowed her to contribute to their education by assisting with homework and reading assignments. Her grandchildren, initially surprised by their grandmother’s new abilities, now see her as a source of support and encouragement
Tshibi Tshitambala Josephine’s story doesn’t end with her personal successes; it extends to the broader community. Her success has inspired others in Mungamba to seek similar opportunities for themselves. She has become a symbol of what is possible when adults are given a second chance to learn. Tshibi Tshitambala often shares her experiences with others and encourages them to overcome their educational barriers.
The impact of Bureka’s numeracy and literacy program on Tshibi Tshitambala Josephine’s life cannot be overstated. By providing literacy tools, the program has not only transformed her personal life but also enabled her to play a more active and fulfilling role in her family and community. Tshibi Tshitambala Josephine’s story is a powerful reminder of the profound difference education can make, regardless of age or prior circumstances.
Ultimately, Madam Tshibi Tshitambala Josephine’s journey is a celebration of resilience, learning, and the human spirit’s ability to evolve. Their success is a shining example of how targeted education programs can break the cycle of disadvantage and empower individuals to achieve their full potential.