Cáritas Córdoba launches literacy workshops in vulnerable neighborhoods

Cáritas Córdoba is implementing literacy workshops and school support initiatives across various community centers and chapels within the Archdiocese to combat rising difficulties in reading and writing among children and youth.

Program coordinators noted that national evaluations indicate approximately half of third-grade students struggle with basic literacy, a deficit that often persists into secondary education. This issue was exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, as disadvantaged sectors lacked the connectivity and technology required for remote learning. Additionally, early exposure to mobile devices and screens is cited as a factor affecting language development and frustration tolerance in early childhood.

To address these challenges, the organization conducted training for community volunteers focused on initial literacy strategies. The methodology emphasizes reconnecting sounds with letter names to facilitate progressive word decoding. These efforts are concentrated in high-vulnerability areas, including Villa Revol, Los Boulevares, Villa Tela, and the vicinity of Villa El Nylon.