“My greatest desire was simply to learn how to read”

“My greatest desire was simply to learn how to read, so I’d be able to find my way if I went somewhere unfamiliar, read my own name at the hospital, and not remain illiterate.”

Like many women in rural Egypt, 39-year-old Fukayna was not given the chance to complete her education as a child. When Embrace partner Think & Do launched literacy and numeracy classes through the Life Schools project near Fukayna’s village, she was determined to join.

“My days are always very busy because we are farmers and have land to cultivate. I hardly have any free time… but I really wanted to learn. I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to attend the school, but my husband encouraged and supported me. I wake up early, go to the fields, finish my work, return home, and then go to the Life School. After school, if there’s more work to do in the fields, I go back; otherwise, I continue with my household responsibilities.”

Learning to read and add up are not just academic achievements; they are literally life changing. Before attending the Life School, Fukayna had years of navigating a world where she couldn’t check the instructions on a medicine packet, couldn’t read documents she was signing, didn’t know if she was given the correct change for her purchases.

Literacy levels for women in many rural communities in upper Egypt remain low, meaning many women face isolation, limited opportunities and even exploitation.

For Fukayna, attending Life School has not only helped her overcome these barriers but has opened up lots of new possibilities:

“My dream is to start my own small business. I know that if I can read, write, and keep accounts, I’ll be able to manage my business, such as a small grocery shop, and keep track of everything I buy and sell. That is why I am determined to continue learning.”

This International Day of Rural Women (15 October) please pray for women like Fukayna who have to work so hard to access something as fundamental as education.