International Literacy Day

Quick Facts - ZA

HashtagsCompiled on#InternationalLiteracyDay, #WorldLiteracyDay
2023 Date8 September 2023
2024 Date8 September 2024
International Literacy Day

International Literacy Day is an annual global observance aimed at highlighting the importance of literacy as a fundamental human right and a key component for social and personal development. Established by UNESCO, this day showcases various initiatives, projects, and advancements in the field of literacy. It encourages governments, organizations, and communities around the world to work towards increasing literacy rates and providing equal opportunities for all in accessing quality education.

For South Africans, International Literacy Day holds particular significance as the country faces numerous challenges related to literacy and education. The legacy of apartheid and ongoing social disparities have resulted in vast differences in educational outcomes among various population groups. To address these issues, the South African government has been making efforts to improve access to quality education and promote literacy across the country. Participation in global occasions like International Literacy Day helps raise awareness and foster collaborations with international organizations to accelerate progress in literacy.

In South Africa, International Literacy Day is observed with a range of activities organized by the government, educational institutions, non-profit organizations, and community groups. Events such as workshops, seminars, book fairs, and reading campaigns are held to encourage a culture of reading and writing, as well as to raise awareness about the importance of literacy in the lives of individuals and communities. Moreover, these initiatives contribute to the government's goal of achieving universal literacy and promoting lifelong learning. International Literacy Day is observed globally, including South Africa, on the 8th of September every year.

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Facts about International Literacy Day

  • The theme for International Literacy Day 2023 was Transforming Literacy Learning Spaces.
  • According to the National Assessment of Adult Literacy, 50% of American Adults are unable to read a book at the eighth grade level and 23% of American Adults are functionally illiterate.
  • Males aged 15 and over have a literacy rate of 90%, while females lag only slightly behind at 82.7%.
  • The youth literacy rate, covering the age group of 15 to 24 years, is higher than the adult rate, standing at around 97%.
  • Female literacy rates in South Africa are slightly higher (87.6%) than those of men (86.4%).

Top things to do in South Africa for International Literacy Day

  • Volunteer at your local retirement home, nursing home, or hospital as a reader. Volunteering as a reader will allow you to share the joy of reading with the elderly or ill patients.
  • Many libraries and even bookstores offer free readings. Check their website to find out about upcoming readings.
  • Visit public libraries to attend special events, workshops, or activities organized for International Literacy Day. Libraries often host storytelling sessions, book clubs, and educational workshops to celebrate and promote literacy.
  • Participate in volunteering activities to support literacy in your community. You can volunteer with organizations like Nal'ibali, which promotes reading and storytelling, or Room to Read, which focuses on early childhood literacy and girls' education.

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