International Literacy Day Emphasizes the Importance of Literacy for All
International Literacy Day (ILD) is a yearly international observance that highlights and celebrates literacy for all people worldwide. This article will explain why it is so important to celebrate International Literacy Day and ways that No Limit International supports literacy year-round.
Why is Literacy Important?
As UNESCO states: “Literacy empowers and liberates people. Beyond its importance as part of the right to education, literacy improves lives by expanding capabilities which in turn reduces poverty, increases participation in the labour market and has positive effects on health and sustainable development.”
Literacy is a powerful tool that can change lives. From providing people with increased access to economic independence to supporting education, the ability to read and write is one that must be supported. The effects that literacy has on our society and world can leave lasting positive impacts for generations to come.
Significance of International Literacy Day (ILD)
International Literacy Day was first declared by UNESCO in 1966 and first celebrated in 1967. Celebrated on September 8 every year, ILD’s purpose is “to remind policy-makers, practitioners, and the public of the critical importance of literacy for creating more literate, just, peaceful, and sustainable society.”
According to UNESCO, International Literacy Day also provides an annual opportunity “to accelerate progress towards the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4),” or Quality Education. This United Nations SDG is important because it works to promote lifelong learning opportunities for people of all ages and walks of life. It also ensures that education is inclusive and equitable, meaning everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
No Limit International Initiatives
No Limit International has taken many steps towards promoting literacy for communities worldwide, especially for young people. These initiatives are part of the non-government organization (NGO)’s mission and goals and have brought positive change to both local and global communities.
In an effort to make reading more accessible to African youth, No Limit International launched a mobile library in the Emana neighborhood in Yaoundé, Cameroon’s capital city. The mobile library is free of charge and stocked full of books for reading, which fights against financial barriers and encourages the Yaoundé community to develop a love for reading. With books in French and English, the library provides a unique educational experience for a variety of ages and languages.
No Limit International has also donated books, tablets, and laptops to various primary schools in Cameroon. These educational supplies have helped thousands of children develop their literacy and digital skills, both of which are crucial to youth development.
No child should be left behind when it comes to literacy, as developing the love of reading in children at an early stage is critical to their educational development, lifelong dreams, and aspirations. Thanks to No Limit International’s contribution, students from these schools have benefited from an increased quality in education, which shapes them to become the leaders and changemakers of tomorrow.
Throughout all of its endeavors, No Limit International has used its contributions as a way to advocate for the advancement of literacy worldwide. This includes encouraging others to both support literacy and to sharpen their own literacy skills in order to make the world a more sustainable place.
“The power of a literate mind is priceless,” says No Limit International Co-Founder Orlyanka Tantchou, “and we must address it.” By supporting international literacy, we can all help bridge the literacy gap worldwide and empower people of all ages to read and learn.
Support International Literacy with No Limit International
With your support, No Limit International can continue to support those in need. Donate today and join us as we work towards improving living conditions, fighting hunger and poverty, providing youth education and recreation, and empowering individuals to believe in a better society.
To learn more about No Limit International, give us a call at +237 699 99 02 89 / +237 675 80 85 10 or contact us via email at info@nolimitinternational.org. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the world we live in.