A veteran Liberian lawyer, Counselor Dr. Isaac G. Wiles, has attributed the destruction of election ballot papers during the 2005 and 2011presidential and general elections to the high rate of illiteracy in the society.
He said the high rate of illiteracy in the country is one of the major factors responsible for confusion.
Wiles made the observation recently at his Broad Street office in Monrovia, when he was honored as a humanitarian of the year 2012 by a local media entity.
He said the time has come for all well-meaning Liberians to formulate strategies that will help national government in reducing illiteracy in the society.
He said that the large number of people who cannot read and write in the aftermath of the 14 years of civil war has prompted him to organize a group called, “Dr. Isaac G. Wiles Foundation for Education and Community Empowerment.”
He said his organization has engaged in many community development projects that are geared toward empowering the citizens, mostly rural dwellers.
Dr. Wiles who is serving as the Executive Director of the organization said it is regrettable to note that a nation at the age of 165 years still have illiterates.
According to him, his administration has finalized plans to establish branches in all of the counties in the country as a means of extending its adult illiteracy program for the betterment of the nation and its citizens.
He further explained that currently they are operating in Montserrado, Bomi and Margibi Counties to encourage those who cannot read and write to get involved in an effort to improve their living standard as well as to make them participate in the reconstruction agenda of Liberia.
Meanwhile, Cllr. Wiles is appealing to the authorities of the Poro and Sande societies in the country to include adult illiteracy program in their traditional learning institutions for the children.
