A Kerry woman told the President, Mrs McAleese, yesterday how her life changed when she picked up the courage to telephone an adult education office 12 months ago.
Ms Ann Ryle, Rahonane, Tralee, said she was not able to help her daughter with her third-class maths assignment. Now, having had classes in numeracy and literacy, she has written for the first time to her brother in Boston.
"He told me it was the best letter he ever got. It has changed my life and it all started just one year ago. Now I am starting studying for my driving licence theory test," Ms Ryle said at the Killarney Community College, where the President performed the closing ceremonies of celebrations of 100 years of the Kerry Education Service.
There are almost 8,000 adult education students in Kerry. A further 3,000 are enrolled in eight post-primary schools.
President McAleese also visited St Columbanus's home for the elderly in Killarney where, quoting an ancient Chinese proverb, she urged people to appreciate the elderly: "Those who drink the water should remember with gratitude those who dug the well."