Abstract
M.Ed.
The central task of this study was to explore and investigate perceptions of
illiterate women in the rural community of Elim on the educational role of the
Lemana Community College. The study was to determine the needs that these
women express and also how they think the community college could serve them.
Seven women were interviewed. In-depth interviews and focus group discussions,
which are qualitative data collection techniques, were used in a mutually
supportive manner.
Research findings established that these women acknowledge that the college
could offer them assistance in a number of areas. The women wanted to engage
in a literacy programme that could at the same time equip them with income
generating skills. They said that it could lead to self-reliance, their confidence will
improve and their children's education will be a beneficiary of this experience. The
study, in summary, found out that these women were willing to participate in
literacy programmes that could be introduced by this community college,
programmes, which could uplift and improve their lives socially, economically, and
educationally.