As Mississippi approaches the 21st century and an increasingly more competitive business climate, the state faces a critical need for work force development and better adult basic education. According to 1990 data, Mississippi contributes only 8.5 percent of funding for adult education (the remaining 91.5 percent comes from federal sources) to serve less than 2.3 percent of the eligible population. Furthermore, Mississippi loses up to one-third of its potential high school graduates between grades 9 and 12. The relationship between recruitment and retention and public knowledge and awareness is inextricable. Recruitment and retention can be thought of in terms of strategic methods, whereas public knowledge and awareness are influenced more by policy, both organizational and governmental. Policy creates programs, and programs need and produce the recruitment and retention that result in public awareness and knowledge that enhances participation. Suggestions to increase public awareness and knowledge of adult basic education or literacy include the following: more student leadership, mandatory literacy programs, student testimonials, celebrity involvement, and coordination of interagency efforts. (Contains 18 references and an appendix detailing years of formal schooling completed, by county.) (YLB)