International literacy day was first celebrated in 1966. This day was meant to raise awareness in countries all over the world about high levels of illiteracy. On this day activities that promote literacy are planned and carried out throughout the day. According to UNESCO, “a literate person is one who can, with understanding, both read and write a short statement relevant to routine life and capable of analytical understanding of men’s condition in the world.”
The 2011 statics proved that in South Africa 49 million, nearly 5 million are illiterate. In celebrating the day, there is a reminder to the community that of the importance of literacy and learning globally. South Africa is struggling to eradicate illiteracy and providing adequate education. 21 African nations have adult literacy rates below 50% and, in Sub-Saharan Africa alone , about 45 million children don’t go to school.
A literate world is a more peaceful world, harmonious and healthy world. This is a day were we as people pledge to move the literacy agenda forward. At the end the day encourages reading and writing at home, school and everywhere. After all without literacy, education is impossible and without education, economic progress is impossible. Economic progress is the only promise of a better life for all.
Education is the great engine of personal development. It is through education that the daughter of a peasant can become a doctor, that the son of a mineworker can become the head of a mine, that the child of a farmworker can become the president of a great nation. It is what we make of what we have, not what we are given, that separates one person from another. ~ Nelson Mandela
References:
1. MontBlanc, 2009. ‘South Africa Celebrates World Literacy Day’ from UNICEF South Africa [online]. Available at www.unicef.org [Accessed 25 July 2011]
2. Altius Directory, 2011. ‘International Literacy Day 2011’ from Altius Directory: Exploring Heights [online] Available at www.altiusdirectory.com [Accessed 25 July 2011]
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