Over one thousand construction workers recently received certification in various educational stages through a corporate literacy program, marking a significant advancement in workforce development across building sites. This initiative, which began over a decade ago, continues to expand its reach, offering fundamental education directly where employees work, and demonstrating tangible impacts on both individual lives and operational efficiency in 2025.
The “Escola Nota 10” program, initially established in 2011, aims to provide literacy and basic education. Its latest phase, restructured from 2022 onwards, successfully certified 1,092 employees, according to data released by the program’s founding company. This effort underscores a commitment to fostering educational opportunities within the construction sector.
The program has seen remarkable growth since its inception, having supported a total of 7,039 students. It has also led to the implementation of 319 schools, with 28 currently operational across various construction sites, ensuring ongoing access to learning for its workforce.
Empowering construction workers through education
The “Escola Nota 10” initiative recently celebrated the certification of 1,092 employees, who successfully completed various educational levels. This milestone reflects the program’s effectiveness in providing crucial learning opportunities directly within the demanding environment of construction sites.
The program underwent a significant methodological overhaul starting in 2022, collaborating with Alicerce Educação. This partnership was instrumental in refining the curriculum and delivery methods, aiming for enhanced engagement and more impactful learning outcomes for all participants.
Program scope and national impact
Since its launch in 2011, the education program has served a total of 7,039 students, consistently working to bridge educational gaps within the construction industry. This long-term commitment highlights a sustained effort to empower workers through knowledge and skills.
The initiative has established 319 on-site schools over its operational period, with 28 currently active. These dedicated learning spaces are pivotal in making education accessible, reducing barriers for employees to pursue their academic goals while continuing their professional work.
Furthermore, the program actively encourages formal educational recognition, enrolling 239 participants in the Encceja, Brazil’s national exam for elementary and high school certification. Achieving a 76% average attendance rate, the project also successfully met 81% of its implementation targets set by management.
Workforce demographics and engagement
Analysis of the program’s participants reveals that 64% possess over ten years of experience in the civil construction sector, indicating a strong engagement from seasoned professionals. This demonstrates the enduring appeal and necessity of foundational education, regardless of career stage.
A substantial 58% of the enrolled employees joined the program within the last six months, showcasing continuous interest and a responsive intake system. The age demographic further highlights diversity, with individuals aged 45 to 59 representing 38% of the student body.
Diversity statistics indicate that 58% of participants identify as Pardo, 27% as Black, and 15% are women, reflecting a broad representation of the construction workforce. These figures underline the program’s reach across various demographic groups, promoting inclusivity in educational access.
Crucially, the commitment to further education is evident as 82% of participants expressed a strong interest in taking the Encceja exam. This widespread desire for formal certification underscores the profound impact the program has on personal and professional development aspirations.
Tangible benefits and social return on investment
Internal studies conducted among both leadership and participating employees have consistently pointed to direct, positive effects on the workplace environment. Managers reported a 62% increase in productivity, a 77% contribution to employee retention, and a 100% recognition of enhanced professional value among their teams, fostering a more stable and engaged workforce. Participants, in turn, expressed high levels of satisfaction, with 83% desiring to remain longer with the company, 89% reporting increased personal productivity, and a unanimous 100% considering the initiative to be positive for their careers and lives.
The program’s profound societal impact was meticulously quantified using the Social Return on Investment (SROI) methodology, revealing an impressive R$13.63 generated in social return for every R$1 invested. This calculation encompasses significant projections, including an estimated R$22.4 million in potential family income growth, R$34.1 million in savings for public education for young adults, and a R$711 thousand reduction in costs related to workplace accidents. The combined economic and fiscal benefits further contributed R$179 thousand, solidifying the program’s multifaceted value.
Accolades and future implications
In 2025, the “Escola Nota 10” program garnered substantial recognition, including a prestigious Bronze Lion at the Cannes Festival, a testament to its innovative approach and impactful outcomes. The initiative also received the respected Troféu Jatobá, further highlighting its excellence within the national landscape. Complementing these honors, the program secured certifications from its partner, Alicerce Educação, notably the ESG in Construction seal, underscoring its commitment to environmental, social, and governance principles. Achievements also extended to podium finishes in the Mathematics Olympiads promoted by the institution, showcasing the academic prowess fostered among its participants and setting a benchmark for corporate social responsibility and sustainable development within the construction sector.
Sustained growth and educational impact
The continued success and recognition of the “Escola Nota 10” program underscore its critical role in driving social transformation. By equipping construction workers with foundational education and skills, the initiative not only enhances individual career trajectories but also generates significant value for society at large, reinforcing the power of education as a catalyst for positive change.