International Literacy Day 2016 celebrates 50 years of local, national and international work and progress to increase literacy rates and boost literacy in the future.
The goal of promoting literacy as an instrument to empower individuals, communities and societies hasn’t really changed in the past five decades. Of course our ideas about literacy have evolved. People today need to be able to do more than read and write to navigate the world around them. There are other essential skills needed, such as digital literacy.
We couldn’t agree more with the International Literacy Day statement by the Director General of UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organizations).
“Our determination to provide every woman and man with the skills, capacities and opportunities to become everything they wish, in dignity and respect, remains as firm as ever. Literacy is a foundation to build a more sustainable future for all.”
The NWT Literacy Council’s beliefs are aligned with those of the international community, which sees literacy as integral to the aim of sustainable development.
- Everyone has a right to literacy.
- Literacy involves everyone – individuals, families, communities, business, labour and governments.
- Literacy and essential skills are the foundation of lifelong learning. They support active participation in the social, economic and political life of our communities, our territory and our country.
Do you share these beliefs? Today’s a good day to think about how literacy involves you.
-- Kathryn Barry Paddock
