Constructing Narratives of Continuity and Change: A transdisciplinary approach to researching lives

In outlining the framework offered at the UNESCO Regional Conference in support of Global Literacy (New Delhi, November 2007), it was pointed out that concepts of poverty, sustainable development and particularly of literacy and innovation have themselves been in continuous re‐construction. An analysis of the context and condition for literacy policies and initiatives in Bangladesh—a country with one of the highest rates of both poverty and illiteracy—was undertaken, as an exemplar for other countries of the Asian region, and for Third World countries around the globe. It is suggested that to meet the challenge ahead, social‐structural strategies must be joined with instructional strategies and second socializations of all involved; and both the planners and providers of adult literacy, and the intended beneficiaries of adult literacy dispensation must be mobilized. Commitments must last for a decade—and more if necessary.