Community Learning Centers

What is a Community Learning Center?

Community Learning Centers (CLC) are places of learning and community development, where a variety of Adult Learning and Education (ALE) services can be delivered to the community, such as functional adult literacy, livelihoods and business skills training, savings and credit schemes, libraries, agricultural and health services, etc. The Recommendation on Adult Learning and Education (RALE, UNESCO General Conference of 2015) states that ‘Adult learning and Education is a core component of lifelong learning’ and member states are advised to establish appropriate structures such as CLC for delivering ALE services, and at the same time, encourage adults to use CLCs for learning and development. Therefore, it is acknowledged CLCs have a strong role to play in ALE, and particularly in ALE service delivery at community level.

Regional CLC operational Guidelines for East/ Horn of Africa (PDF)

Why CLCs in the region and next steps of implementation?

The CLC model was transferred from Morocco to Ethiopia through a peer learning process that was supported by DVV International. After adapting it to the local context in Ethiopia, and later in Uganda, it was piloted by both countries. Today, CLCs are recognized as hubs for lifelong learning that deliver a wide range of integrated services based on local community needs and national development agendas in these two countries. By creating places such as CLCs, ALE services can be delivered in an integrated manner with our partners. CLC forms one programme component in the national integrated ALE programmes in Ethiopia and Uganda. In Tanzania, the CLC model has been introduced through exchange visits to Uganda and Ethiopia and Tanzanian government as well as other key stakeholders in the ALE sector are appreciating the concept.

While in Uganda and Ethiopia governments put an emphasis on establishing CLCs country wide, Tanzania has launched its first CLC in December 2022. A second CLC will be launched early 2023. DVV International facilitates the process of further establishing and institutionalising CLCs in the three countries by organising exchange of experiences and peer learning among the three countries and also among Districts and regions within a country.

Community Learning Centers (CLCs) in Tanzania

Hogoro Community Learning Center (Hogoro CLC)

Overview: Hogoro CLC is situated in Hogoro Ward, approximately 36 kilometres from Kongwa District Council. The centre serves five villages: Hogoro, Nyerere, Chamae, Banyibanyi, and Mkutani.

The CLC includes a demonstration area, playground, recreational room, and mini-library, providing a conducive environment for learning and community activities.

The centre is managed by the CLC Management Committee, which consists of six members. The committee is led by a chairperson, with the CLC coordinator acting as the secretary.

The CLC operates at the District Level, with the focal points being the Ward Education Officer and the District Adult Education Officer.

Operational Details:

Hours: 08:00 am - 06:00 pm
Staff: CLC coordinator, CMC, tailoring instructor
Activities: Training on the demonstration area, coordination of various meetings, literacy training, sports and games, news bulletins

Mzenga Community Learning Center (Mzenga CLC)

Overview: Mzenga CLC is located in Kisarawe district, approximately 54 kilometers from Kisarawe town. It serves four villages: Mzenga, Turini, Mitengwe, and Vilabwa.

The centre features a demonstration area, facilitating practical learning and community agricultural demonstrations.

It is managed by the CLC coordinator and the CLC chairperson, who oversee the development of the demonstration area and coordination of activities.

It operates at the district level, similar to Hogoro CLC, ensuring consistent oversight and support.

Operational Details:

Hours: 08:00 am - 09:30 pm
Staff: CLC coordinator, CLC chairperson
Activities: Developing the demonstration area, coordination of various meetings, literacy training, news bulletins, sports, and games

Ruvu JKT Community Learning Center (Ruvu JKT CLC)

Overview: Ruvu JKT CLC is located in the Kibaha district council, about 33 kilometers from Kibaha town. It serves five hamlets: Mihande bomu, Mtambani, Njia Panda JKT, Ruvu kwa Dossa, and Saidi domo.

The centre includes an agricultural demonstration area, enhancing hands-on learning opportunities for the community.

The center is overseen by the CLC coordinator and the Ward Education Officer, ensuring the smooth running of programs and activities.

Level of Government it operates: District Level, maintaining a consistent administrative framework across all CLCs.

Operational Details:

Hours: 09:00 am - 05:00 pm
Staff: CLC coordinator, Ward Education Officer
Activities: Developing the demonstration area, coordination of various meetings, literacy training, workshops, TV news, ICT for students