On Monday, October 27, 2025, Pedrica Saint Jean, Minister for the Status of Women, participated in the National Literacy Partnership Celebration Day in Haiti, in Pétion-ville.

Themed "Partnership for a Literate Haiti Focused on Sustainable Development", the event was organized by the Office of the Secretary of State for Literacy (BSEA), in collaboration with the Ministry of National Education.

In her speech, Minister Saint Jean presented literacy as a lever for sustainable development and gender equality. She also emphasized the importance of literacy in the Sustainable Development Goals and recalled that "[...] SDG 4 reminds us that without literacy, there can be no civic participation, no access to employment, and no sustainable development." SDG 5 teaches us that gender equality begins with access to education. A literate woman is a woman who can defend her rights, protect her family, create wealth, and participate in the decisions that shape her country's future."

Further, Ms. Saint Jean placed particular emphasis on literacy as a strategic tool that can facilitate women's civic and political participation. "You are a literate woman. If you are a literate woman, you are a citizen, you are a citizen, you are a citizen, you are a citizen, you are a citizen," she affirmed, reiterating her full support for the BSEA.

The Minister also called for programs adapted to the realities of Haitian women, the training of community instructors, and the creation of accessible and safe learning centers, particularly for women in rural areas.

As part of this day, the Ministry for the Status of Women and Women's Rights received an honorary distinction, which the Minister accepted on behalf of the Ministry, in recognition of its commitment to promoting literacy and non-formal education, particularly for girls and women.

HL/ HaitiLibre