International Literacy Day, 8th September
#InternationalLiteracyDay
The ability to read and write is more than a skill. It’s about dignity, human rights, and opportunity.
Literacy builds the foundation for education, improves life expectancy, and strengthens entire societies.
But the challenge is still real:
- 775 million people worldwide are illiterate
- About two-thirds of them are women
- 155 million children are not attending school
- The global literacy rate is 82%, and in many countries it has stopped growing
Higher illiteracy is linked to higher poverty. As Kofi Annan said: “Literacy is a bridge from misery to hope.”
How to observe
1. Volunteer: Read to children at your local library or help an adult learn to read and write.
2. Donate: Support organizations like the World Literacy Foundation or your public library.
3. Inspire, Share quotes about literacy. Frederick Douglass said: “Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.”
4. Spread awareness: Post and share messages online with #InternationalLiteracyDay
History of the Day
UNESCO declared September 8th as International Literacy Day on October 26, 1966. It has been celebrated every year since 1967.
Each year has a theme. Past themes include: “Literacy in a Digital World” (2017), "Literacy and Multilingualism” (2019), and “Literacies for the 21st Century” (2013).
Today, let’s celebrate reading and writing, and work to make sure everyone, everywhere, gets the chance to learn.
0 Comments