International Literacy Day 2024: History, Significance & Theme

What gives us the power to know our rights and learn new things? What is the medium that makes us curious to know more? What gives us the power of judgment and decision-making? Every answer to all these questions will lead to literacy. International Literacy Day is Celebrated on September 8th every year.

On this day, we acknowledge the importance of literacy in our lives. People across the world pledge to spread awareness of literacy to build a democracy and give the highest importance to every one’s birth rights. Keep reading ahead to learn more about literacy and its significance.

What is Literacy?

Literacy is the power to read and write in a particular language. It is also the power to listen to something, understand it, and communicate accordingly. Literacy comes from the teaching and education we get at school, at home, and in our surroundings.

This is no less than a superpower that enables us to understand and gather knowledge. It lets us make rational decisions by learning how to think logically. The more we read, study, and understand things, the better our thought process will become. It will literally change the way a society thinks and will help it progress towards a better future.

Literacy is considered to be the first step to many new things in life. A person becomes aware of his birth rights. He can realise what is wrong and right based on the laws. It also makes our minds more curious to know something deeply and to revert with proper knowledge. To promote these benefits, International Literacy Day is celebrated on the 8th of September every year.

When Do We Celebrate World Literacy Day?

We celebrate World Literacy Day on 8th September every year. In 1967, UNESCO announced this day of the year to celebrate literacy across the world. On this day, countries pledge to support and promote literacy in their populations.

Since then, this day has been celebrated as International Literacy Day every year. UNESCO determined the necessity of literacy and its crucial role related to human development. Hence, intensive efforts were made to promote literacy among individuals, societies, and communities in many countries.

International Literacy Day for a Better Future

Significant progress has been made in literacy, with recent data showing that over 86% of people around the world can read and write, up from 68% in 1979. However, there are still 765 million adults who cannot read or write, with two-thirds of them being women. Additionally, 250 million children are not learning basic reading and writing skills. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, which severely disrupted education, 617 million children and teenagers were not meeting basic reading levels.

International Literacy Day History

International Literacy Day, observed annually on September 8th, was established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1966. The day was first celebrated in 1967 to highlight the importance of literacy as a fundamental human right and a key to personal and societal development.

The history of International Literacy Day began with UNESCO's recognition of the critical role literacy plays in the empowerment of individuals and communities. The day raises awareness about global literacy challenges and promotes efforts to improve literacy rates worldwide.

Each year, International Literacy Day focuses on different themes related to literacy and education, encouraging governments, organisations, and individuals to contribute to the goal of increasing literacy levels and fostering lifelong learning. The day is a reminder of the ongoing need for educational reforms and resources to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to acquire basic reading and writing skills.

International Literacy Day Theme 2024

The International Literacy Day Theme 2024 is "Promoting Multilingual Education: Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace." This theme highlights the importance of providing education in multiple languages to enhance communication and encourage mutual understanding among diverse cultures. By supporting multilingual education, we can bridge gaps between different linguistic and cultural groups, promoting peace and unity. This approach not only helps individuals access education in their native languages but also encourages global cooperation and respect for cultural diversity. International Literacy Day 2024 raises awareness about these benefits and inspires efforts towards more inclusive and effective literacy programs worldwide.

International Literacy Day Quotes

Here is a list of famous International Literacy Day quotes that depict the importance of literacy.

• "The man who does not read has no advantage over the man who cannot read.” – Mark Twain.

• “Let us remember: One book, one pen, one child, and one teacher can change the world.” - Malala Yousafzai

• “Literacy is a bridge from misery to hope." - Kofi Annan

• “The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.” - B.B. King

• “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.”- Mahatma Gandhi

Understanding the meaning of these famous quotes will surely help you realise the importance of literacy in the modern world. In India, the National Literacy Day coincides with that of the international one celebrated across the world.

World Literacy Day Slogan

Here are some World Literacy Day slogans:

• "Empower Minds, Change Lives: Celebrate World Literacy Day!"

• "Reading Lights the Path to Progress: Support World Literacy Day!"

• "Unlock Potential Through Literacy: Join the International Literacy Day Movement!"

• "Every Word Counts: Promote Literacy on World Literacy Day!"

• "Literacy for All: Building Brighter Futures Together!"

• "Educate, Empower, Inspire: World Literacy Day for Every Learner!"

• "Read, Write, Rise: Celebrate the Power of Literacy!"

• "Ignite Curiosity, Spark Change: International Literacy Day 2024!"

• "Knowledge is Power: Champion Literacy on World Literacy Day!"

• "Bridging Gaps with Books: Join Us for International Literacy Day!"

What can you do on Literacy Day?

Spread awareness and make people realise the importance of Literacy by doing the following things in your community, society, village, city or town.

1. Pass Your Education Material

Once you are done studying some books, you can pass them on to the next generation of students. This action will have a brilliant motive. You will find the ideal way to raise awareness related to literacy and help students take a step ahead by donating your study material.

Convince other students like you to do the same. You can also approach the school authorities to encourage students to do the same. It will become a revolution that enables students to find textbooks for free and to continue studying.

2. Teach and Spread the Word

The best way to celebrate Literature Day is to pledge and teach one or two students for free. You will find multiple candidates willing to study if they have the right platform. Seek such students and deliver knowledge. Make them understand the importance of being literate in this era and encourage them to spread the message of Literacy.

3. Learn Something New

You can also take a step ahead and learn something new. You can learn how to speak another language. Promote the necessity of learning how to read and write in the mother tongue.

International Literacy Day Activities for Schools

International Literacy Day is marked by a variety of activities to promote literacy and education. Here are some common activities:

• Educational Workshops: Organizing workshops and seminars on literacy and language education to raise awareness and provide training.

• Reading Events: Hosting reading sessions, book fairs, and storytelling events to encourage reading among children and adults.

• Literacy Campaigns: Launching campaigns to highlight the importance of literacy, using social media, posters, and community outreach.

• School and Community Programs: Implementing special programs in schools and communities to promote reading and writing skills.

• Fundraising Events: Conducting fundraising activities to support literacy projects and initiatives.

• Public Lectures: Arranging lectures and talks by experts on the impact of literacy and multilingual education.

• Book Donations: Collecting and distributing books to underserved communities and schools.

• Interactive Workshops: Providing interactive sessions on digital literacy and the use of technology in education.

• Exhibitions: Setting up exhibitions to showcase successful literacy programs and innovative teaching methods.

• Collaborations: Partnering with NGOs, educational institutions, and governments to promote and implement effective literacy strategies.

A Message to Convey

Let illiterate people know the power of reading, writing, and mathematics. Simple calculations can make us think logically. We can make better decisions when we are literate. The knowledge we gather becomes the fuel for rational thinking. This is why celebrating International Literacy Day is needed. It is crucial for a better future with a world full of literate people making good decisions.