The idea that reading, writing and arithmetic are the foundations of any educational system have been around for centuries. Without these foundations further education is impossible. In fact a lack of these skills will prevent the individual from reaching their true potential. If a country is largely illiterate it will be stuck in the third world until there is a drastic intervention. Although the rate of illiteracy in South Africa is estimated at around 8% the impact of the problem is felt on a variety of levels, both economic and social. This why the current roll out of Adult Basic education and Training programs across the country is absolutely essential.