By Ezennia Uche
Have you ever thought of living your life without the ability to read, write, or communicate effectively? The thought alone can be daunting.
Today, the world celebrates International Literacy Day (ILD), a day mapped out to recognise the profound role that being literate plays in our lives. It’s a day set aside to further inculcate and educate the world on the inestimable value of learning and enlightenment. It would be almost impossible to exist in this time and era without being literate to some extent.
What Does Literacy Mean to the World?
Since 1967, the annual celebrations of ILD have taken place on September 8th to remind policymakers, practitioners, and the public of the critical importance of literacy for creating a more literate, just, peaceful, and sustainable society.
Literacy is far more than just the ability to read and write; it is a fundamental human right. It empowers individuals, improves their health, and provides a pathway out of poverty. When a person becomes literate, they gain access to new information, new job opportunities, and a greater ability to participate in their community and the wider world. For many, literacy is the key that unlocks their potential.
On a global scale, literacy is a catalyst for development. Nations with high literacy rates tend to have stronger economies, better public health, and more stable societies. It’s the engine that drives progress and innovation. When we talk about global challenges like climate change, poverty, and inequality, literacy is a foundational tool for addressing them. It allows people to understand complex issues and contribute to solutions.
Key Things to Know About the Celebration
International Literacy Day is a worldwide call to action. While it’s a day of celebration, it’s also a sobering reminder of the work that still needs to be done. Here’s what you should know about the significance of this day:
- A Global Challenge: Despite significant progress, over 773 million young people and adults still lack basic literacy skills. These individuals are often the most marginalised and vulnerable in society.
- A Focus on All Ages: Literacy isn’t just for children. The day highlights the need for adult literacy programs and lifelong learning. Many organisations focus on empowering adults, particularly women, who may have missed out on an education during their childhood.
- Themed Celebrations: The theme for International Literacy Day 2025 is “Promoting literacy in the digital era.” This theme emphasizes the challenges and opportunities presented by digitalization, highlighting the need to develop digital literacy skills alongside traditional literacy, ensure inclusive access to digital tools, and critically evaluate online information. It’s a clear reminder that literacy is constantly evolving to meet the demands of our modern world.
- Everyone Can Help: You don’t have to be a teacher to make a difference. You can support literacy initiatives in your community by volunteering at a local library, donating books to a school, or simply encouraging a love for reading in your own family and among your friends.
By celebrating International Literacy Day, we aren’t just celebrating the act of reading. We are celebrating the power of knowledge, the freedom of expression, and the universal right to an education. It’s a reminder that a literate world is a better world for all of us.
