International Literacy Day 2022: History, significance, and theme

To raise awareness of the value of literacy and its significance in daily life and society, September 8 is observed as International Literacy Day. Literacy helps people improve their standard of living and lead a better life overall by empowering both individuals and entire societies. September 8 was designated as Literacy Day by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1966. Since 1967, this day has been observed to raise awareness of the value of literacy and the benefits it provides to individuals, groups, and entire societies.

Significance

Around the world, according to UNESCO, “at least 773 million youth and adults still cannot read and write, and 250 million children are failing to acquire basic literacy skills. While discussing the significance of literacy, UNESCO states on its website, “The “multiplier effect” of literacy empowers people, enables them to participate fully in society and contributes to improving livelihoods. Literacy is also a driver for sustainable development in that it enables greater participation in the labour market; improved child and family health and nutrition; reduces poverty and expands life opportunities.”

Theme

This year’s International Literacy Day is centred around “Transforming Literacy Learning Spaces.” The UNESCO website states, “It will be an opportunity to rethink the fundamental importance of literacy learning spaces to foster resilience and guarantee the quality, equitable, and inclusive education for all.” “To ensure that no one is left behind, we need to enrich and transform the existing learning spaces through an integrated approach and enable literacy learning with the perspective of lifelong learning,” it continues. “In the aftermath of the pandemic, nearly 24 million learners might never return to formal education, out of whom, 11 million are projected to be girls and young women.