Adult Education remains the dark horse amongst bright horses. It is perpetually being subjected to an ordeal of being grossly despised, ignored and neglected by those in authority (policy makers) and the general public. The philosophical foundations of adult education indicates that this multi-dimensional discipline rests on the core value of community orientation in the light of highlighting the plight of the poor, the marginalized, the disabled, the workers, minority tribes and many other under privileged sectarians of the society. It argues that mass-illiteracy is a sin and must be liquidated and does not confine to literacy programmes alone but also aim at the emancipation of the masses from the squalor of superstition and the tyranny of taboos. It is supposed to facilitate real socio-economic and sustainable development in both the developed and developing countries. As one writer outlines, the concept of adult education has more to do with adulthood and education, liberating adult education and its modes, the communication of knowledge, the advancement of reason, educational processes, concepts of educational justice and education for democracy. Vision 2016 calls for a transformation of Botswana into a nation which is 'educated and informed'. Now how do we make that possible when we still under utilize problem-posing education, in which educator and educatee, together, as knowing subjects, 'read' the mediating 'subject'. i.e. reality of their world in a dialogue, to achieve a deepening awareness, both of the social, cultural, economic and political reality. Education that shapes their lives and of their potential/capacity to transform that reality, by raising their consciousness. We are not necessarily saying people should revolt against the government to realize who they are in terms of citizen values.
Admittedly basic/literacy education is one part which has a sound pivotal significance on the development of a social being. Literacy is just another tip of the ice bag of adult education. Contrary to most views, opinions and self-assumed perceptions of the society, adult education content offers a lot more than just mere literacy skill under the morula tree.
