by Dr. Rosalind Bradley
BELIZE CITY, Thurs. Sept. 7, 2023
On September 8, 2023, we are reminded of the importance of literacy as we join hands with nations across the globe to celebrate International Literacy Day under the theme: “Promoting Literacy for a world in transition: Building the foundation for sustainable and peaceful societies.”
Literacy is not just a skill that all should have. It is a fundamental human right and a channel for personal, as well as national, development. If that is the case, then literacy must be promoted as a national priority. That is the message and the reason for the celebration of International Literacy Day in accordance with the goal of UNESCO. Literacy is not just a skill; it is a fundamental human right. In the current digital age, pushing literacy as the foundation of all other forms of learning is the impetus for change that should motivate all Belizeans to strive toward the building of a more just and peaceful society.
For our children, literacy opens doors to a world of possibilities. It is the cornerstone upon which their entire educational journey is built. Reading and writing skills are the keys that unlock the treasure of knowledge found in books, articles and digital resources. When children develop these skills, they not only excel academically, but they also develop the critical thinking and problem-solving abilities necessary to succeed in school and in an ever-changing world. Furthermore, literacy instills in children a love for learning. It inspires their curiosity, fosters creativity and nurtures their dreams. It enhances their chances of becoming informed citizens who can actively participate in shaping the future of Belize.
In a multicultural society, learning to read in what is considered a second language is twice as hard. This factor is often compounded by students’ limited access to books in the homes and even in schools. Reading, like other skills, is acquired through practice. This speaks to the importance of having community libraries, as well as school and/or classroom libraries that provide age-appropriate reading material for our children and, yes, adults.
Promoting and advancing literacy programs also plays a significant role in the lives of adults, and can be a measure taken to reduce crime. It is a lifeline that can transform the lives of those who missed out on education in their early years. Illiteracy is often a barrier to employment, economic stability and access to healthcare. By promoting literacy amongst adults, we empower them to improve their livelihoods, support their families and increase the chances of them contributing meaningfully to society. This promotes national security.
Literacy also improves the capacity for critical thought and informed decision-making among adults. In today’s world of information overload and fake news, the ability to discern fact from fiction is vital. An individual who is literate is in a far better position to navigate the complexities of our interconnected world through the different media platforms, while making informed decisions for themselves, their families and communities.
Today, as we celebrate International Literacy Day, let us all think beyond the individual benefits. Literacy is the foundation of the global development goals aimed at poverty reduction, gender equality and promotion of peace. Within those contexts, literacy is more than what it offers toward personal growth; it is a cornerstone for the sustainable development of Belize, and as such it is a shared responsibility.
As Belize embraces UNESCO’s vision and strives to promote literacy, it is important to recognize the need for collaboration. Government, civil societies, and educators must come together to plan and work to eliminate some of the barriers to literacy, whether they are cultural, economic or structural factors. In so doing, we will build a better Belize and create a world where everyone can prosper.