Paulo Freire

Paulo Freire (1921-1997) was a Brazilian educator and philosopher best known for his influential work "Pedagogy of the Oppressed" (1968). This seminal text criticized traditional education models and advocated for a pedagogy that encourages critical thinking and liberation. In 1961, Freire implemented an innovative literacy program in Brazil, which quickly taught 300 sugarcane workers to read and write in just 45 days. His methods emphasized dialogue and the cultural context of learners. In 1986, Freire received the UNESCO Prize for Peace Education, recognizing his significant contributions to the field of education. He also served as Secretary of Education for São Paulo from 1989 to 1991, where he continued to promote his educational philosophies.