Monday 8th September is International Literacy Day, this annual event has been observed since 1967 and aims to ‘remind policy-makers, practitioners, and the public of the critical importance of literacy for creating more literate, just, peaceful, and sustainable society.’ This year’s theme is ‘Promoting Literacy in the digital era’ with celebrations taking place around the world at various global, regional, national and local events. Technology presents both opportunities and challenges to literacy development. UNESCO warns that while digitalisation can impact our lives in positive ways, it also ‘risks creating double marginalisation – exclusion not only from traditional literacy learning but also from the benefits of the digital age.’
Recognising International Literacy Day is important – being literature opens so many doors and opportunities for individuals in their lives and a lack of skills can be a huge barrier. While progress has been made there are still some concerning figures:
- 739 million young people and adults lack basic literacy skills
- 4 in 10 children are not reaching minimum proficiency in reading
- 272 million children and adolescents were out of school in 2023
Literacy resources
Our online education magazine, R.I.S.E. provides helpful resources for educators covering a variety of topics in education, including literacy focused support.
Here are a few articles you may find useful: