Past Event! Note: this event has already taken place.
Foundational Literacy and “Learning Poverty”
February 6, 2024 at 12:30 PM to 2:00 AM
| Location: | 1723 and Zoom Dunton Tower |
| Cost: | Free |
| Audience: | Alumni, Anyone, Carleton Community, Current Students, Staff and Faculty |
| Contact Email: | AfricanStudies@cunet.carleton.ca |
As part of the Brownbag Seminar Series, please join us on Tuesday, February 6th 2024, as Yvonne Capehart Weah presents: “Foundational Literacy and “Learning Poverty”
Time: 12H30-2h00 PM EST
Abstract:
Literacy is a gateway that can open the door to a world of opportunities, yet according to the World Bank, a startling 70% of children in low- and middle-income are experiencing “Learning Poverty” – defined as the inability to read a simple text with comprehension by age 10. In recognition of Canada’s International Development Week, the Institute of African Studies at Carleton University is pleased to host Yvonne Capehart Weah, co-founder of the WE-CARE Foundation in Liberia. Working in close collaboration with communities, governments, and partners (like Ottawa-based charity CODE) she has championed children’s literacy for over 30 years. Join us on February 6th for an insightful discussion as Yvonne will speak about the obstacles to combating learning poverty in Liberia and what WE-CARE and other local actors are doing to improve foundational learning.
About the speaker:
Yvonne and her husband Michael Weah started the WE-CARE Foundation 30 years ago as a “book chain” to occupy residents under strict curfews during the brutal First Liberian Civil War (1989-1996). The “book chain” evolved into Monrovia’s first, and for a long time, only public library offering a variety of programming to increase literacy. A partnership between CODE and the WE-CARE Foundation was established in 2009 – and together they have delivered numerous educational programs to improve early-grade literacy through book development and teacher training. Current programs include Teaching and Learning in Fragile Contexts co-funded by Global Affairs Canada and the Girls’ Accelerated Learning Initiative funded exclusively by the Canadian public.
Yvonne is a passionate advocate of every child’s right to a quality education. She is an experienced education program administrator and teacher training. Yvonne has a Masters in Education Administration and Supervision and is currently studying for a Doctorate in Education Administration from Atlantic International University. See a brief video of Yvonne at www.code.ngo/gali