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Children’s schooling has been disrupted by COVID-19 for the past two years. In spite of the current global crisis, efforts are still being made to find new strategies to guarantee that education will continue in the future in a progressive way.
Literacy is a driver of sustainable development as it empowers individuals and helps people understand its importance.
What is International Literacy Day?
International Literacy Day is an annual celebration observed all over the world on the 8th of September to spread awareness to the masses about the importance of literacy.
In 1966, 8th September was declared International Literacy Day by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). And in 1967 it was first practised, and since then World literacy day is celebrated each year on this day.
Despite progress made over the years, there are 773 million young people and adults who lack basic literacy skills and 617 million children and adolescents do not have a basic proficiency level in reading and writing which makes it extremely important to raise awareness among people.
This awareness is essential within our communities as well as globally to remind the public of the importance of literacy as a matter of dignity and human rights. According to UNESCO, it will take another 50 years (2060) to achieve universal literacy.
Who Introduced Literacy Day and What is its History?
In 1966, UNESCO introduced International Literacy Day, marking its observance on a global scale aiming to build more literate societies around the world.
It was the result of a discussion during 1965’s World Conference of Ministers of Education, where members stressed the literacy rate of young people and how it was important to eradicate ignorance of literacy.
Members also discussed the benefits that people across the world would enjoy with greater access to livelihood and how they would be able to think independently and feel more empowered about their abilities.
What is the Importance of International Literacy Day?
Literacy is one of the powerful tools that can contribute to building a solid foundation for a human-centered recovery, by focusing on integral parts such as literacy and digital skills required by non-literate youth and adults.
Celebration of Literacy day is important in order to strengthen the education system, help needy people and also to raise awareness about the section of society which still lacks basic education and skills. It helps to take a few measures such as:-
● Development of national literacy policies and strategies.
● Catering to the learning needs of underprivileged groups, women and girls.
● Utilizing digital technologies to improve learning outcomes and expand.
● Tracking progress and assessing literacy skills and programmes.
● It helps to create opportunities for people that will help them and their families.
Why is World Literacy Day Celebrated?
World Literacy Day is Celebrated in order to remove ignorance of illiteracy. It is celebrated to help the public know the importance of literacy which is their human right and to advance the aim of building a more literate and sustainable society.
Literacy is one of the key development goals which will ensure that all young people become literate. There are various measures undertaken to help people who lack the opportunity to acquire them.
● A literate population can help to tackle various issues like poverty and unemployment.
● With literary skills, people will be more aware of their rights and will be able to make better decisions, and work together for the betterment of themselves and others.
● Literacy improves lifestyle, and the ability to communicate effectively, and helps to express our feelings and thoughts clearly.
● It opens up opportunities to advance up the socioeconomic ladder.
● Literacy is the key to personal empowerment.
How Do Schools Celebrate International Literacy Day?
Many schools, colleges and other educational institutions celebrate International Literacy day every year. Teachers, students, and parents participate in various activities such as:
● Reading books
● Funding underprivileged children
● Donating books
It is necessary to bridge the gap caused due to digital technology. Due to disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, This year’s international literacy day theme revolves around human-centered recovery and narrowing the digital divide which means exploring more opportunities to spread inclusive and technology-based literacy.
What is the Theme for International Literacy Day 2022?
The theme for International Literacy Day 2022 is “Transforming Literacy Learning Spaces” where strategies will be formed to build new learning spaces to build resilience and ensure quality, equitable and inclusive education for all.
How Do We Celebrate International Literacy Day?
● Building a community lending library.
● Tutoring adults or privileged children in the community.
● Conducting digital literacy campaigns for people who are unaware of digital or social media.
● Students volunteering at a local elementary school.
● Using literacy skills to build awareness among people.
What are Some of the Most Inspiring World Literacy Day Quotes?
“Literacy is a bridge from misery to hope”
~ Kofi Annan.
“Education is the most powerful weapon with which you can change the world”
~ Nelson Mandela.
“One book, one pen, one child, and one teacher can change the world”
~ Malala Yousafzi.
“You educate a man; you educate a man. You educate a woman; you educate a generation”
~ Brigham Young.
Facts About International Literacy Day
● Literacy is a part of education and it’s our right as human beings.
● International Literacy Day is not a public holiday but it is celebrated all over the world.
● On International Literacy day, UNESCO appoints a jury to award International Literacy Prizes in Paris, France.
● There is a steady rise in the literacy rate but there are still 750 million illiterate adults around the world.
● UNESCO’s logo features a drawing of a temple.
FAQs on International Literacy Day
What is India’s Literacy Day?
September 8, is observed as Literacy Day all over the world. India has come a long way overall especially in literacy, since 75 years of Independence.
When and Where Was the First Literacy Day Held?
The World First Literacy Day was held during the World Conference of Ministers of Education in Tehran in 1965.
What is UNESCO Full Form?
The full form of UNESCO is (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization).
Which Country Has the Highest Literacy Rate?
Developed nations have a literacy rate of 96% out of which Finland is the most literate nation in the world. Developing countries have a literacy rate of 65%.
Which Country Has the Lowest Literacy Rate?
South Sudan is the country with the Lowest literacy Rate at 34.52%
What is the Literacy Rate of India in 2021?
The literacy rate of India in 2021 is 74.04% out of which the male literacy rate is 82.14% and the female literacy rate is 65.46% as per the 2021 census.
Which State Ranks Lowest and Highest in Literacy Rate in India?
Kerala has the Highest Literacy rate with 93.91% and Bihar has the lowest Literacy rate with 63.82%.
International School in Pune, like the Global Indian International School, celebrates Literacy day with full gist by conducting various programmes like donating books where student families donate books to libraries. Books, educational resources and scholarships are gifted to underprivileged students.
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