Mr Daniel Mensah of Gomoa Abonko, who started his education in a non-formal class in 1991, is now pursuing a higher national diploma (HND) course at the Cape Coast Polytechnic.
Mr P.K. Danson, Gomoa District Coordinator of the Non-Formal Education Division (NFED) made this known at Apam during which 56 facilitators were rewarded for promoting the programme over the years.
He said the functional literacy programme had demystified certain outmoded traditions and beliefs and that it has also reduced poverty through income-generating ventures, which the programme promoted.
Mr Joyce Aidoo, Gomoa District Chief Executive, commended the District staff of NFED for turning out 22,806 learners from 1991 to date.
She appealed to the learners to emulate Mr Mensah by not limiting themselves to reading and writing the local languages only, adding that the introduction of English into the programme should urge them to become literate in the official language.
Mr Fred Oscar Abban, the Presiding Member of the Gomoa District Assembly appealed to the learners not to make the functional literacy programme impact only on their businesses but also on their way of life.
"The programme should also enhance your perspective toward management of our environment especially with regards to sanitation," he said.
The facilitators were presented with roofing sheets, radio/cassette recorders and sewing machines.
Mr Ato Nyarko, a beneficiary expressed appreciation for the incentive package and said it would motivate them to work harder.