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Germany's hidden crisis: 6 million adults struggle with literacy

Jessica Tepass is one of millions fighting to read and write as an adult. Her courageous journey exposes a national struggle—and a path forward.

The image shows an old book with a map of Germany on it. The map is detailed and shows the various...
The image shows an old book with a map of Germany on it. The map is detailed and shows the various provinces and cities of the country. The book is open, revealing the intricate details of the map.

Germany's hidden crisis: 6 million adults struggle with literacy

A recent television report has brought attention to adult illiteracy in Germany, where around six million people face difficulties with reading and writing. The feature follows Jessica Tepass, a learner at Wesel's adult education centre (vhs), as she works to improve her skills in a dedicated course.

The report was produced by Frontal, a documentary series from ZDF, and later aired on RTL West. It explores the daily struggles of adults who cannot read or write confidently. Through personal interviews, viewers see how Tepass navigates her lessons at the vhs and the progress she makes.

The programme also highlights the determination of learners like Tepass, who show remarkable courage in overcoming their challenges. By sharing her story, the report aims to break the stigma around illiteracy and inspire others to seek support. The full feature is available on the vhs website for those interested in learning more. Beyond individual experiences, the report stresses the broader issue of adult illiteracy across Germany. It encourages affected individuals to reach out to local education centres, where courses like the one in Wesel provide structured help.

The documentary sheds light on a widespread but often hidden problem in Germany. With resources like the vhs programme, adults can access the tools they need to develop essential literacy skills. The report's release coincides with ongoing efforts to reduce barriers and support those willing to learn.

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