In 2022, 16% of the illiterate population in Brazil were aged 60 or above, according to the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE). Encouragingly, this demographic also witnessed the most significant decrease in illiteracy rates within the country. When compared to 2019, the reduction was by 2.1 percentage points, and a more notable decrease of 4.5 points was observed when compared to 2016, as detailed in the Continuous National Household Sample Survey (PNAD) on Education 2022.

Take José Pereira from Paragominas, Pará, for example. At the age of 63, he managed to learn to read and write, thanks to the Território do Saber program, an initiative spearheaded by Hydro in collaboration with the Municipal Secretary of Education (SEMEC). “Learning to write my name was the happiest moment for me. I’m now eager to learn more, acquire a profession, understand how to take a bus and travel, and read street signs so I know where I’m going without having to ask others,” he shares.

Launching in 2019 and wrapping up in 2024, the Território do Saber initiative went beyond teaching over 200 young people, adults, and seniors to read and write. It also launched initiatives to bolster management and professional development in education. The program engaged more than 500 participants, including teachers, coordinators, principals, technicians, and leadership from urban, rural, indigenous schools, as well as from SEMEC, through courses, seminars, workshops, and other events.

Joelma Portela, who has spent 15 years in the Paragominas municipal education system, speaks highly of the program’s impact. “Território unquestionably gave me a voice. It organized the National Common Curricular Base (BNCC) in such a way that allowed us to learn, and gain autonomy and confidence in our classrooms. Being part of these training sessions was a gift. The program leaves behind an invaluable legacy that focuses on addressing the actual needs of students, offering a unique perspective on each one,” she asserts.

The literacy curriculum for Youth, Adults, and Seniors (AJA) was collaboratively developed during the Território do Saber sessions, with curriculum proposals crafted by consultants, educators, and student representatives. “Território’s collaboration with the people of Paragominas enriches, dignifies, and uplifts our community's knowledge, wisdom, and self-esteem. The knowledge imparted to the young, the adults, and the elderly is enriching and breathes new life and hope into our community,” concludes Vera Lúcia, Deputy Mayor of Paragominas.

Moreover, Território do Saber has published two physical books and four e-books, offering insights, methodologies, and contributions gathered over the project's five-year span. “Education is the most profound legacy we can offer. It’s transformative and can be disseminated and multiplied. By enhancing the skills of educational professionals, we’re driving sustainable change in Paragominas, fostering a more competent and prepared generation of children, youths, and adults for the future. The knowledge bestowed upon these individuals is genuine and crucial, broadening horizons and opening new worldviews for participants,” concludes Anderson Martins, Industrial Director at Hydro Paragominas.