International Literacy Day
September 8 is celebrated as International Literacy Day annually by the United Nations and its member countries world over. It is a day that serves as a reminder to focus on the importance of literacy.
It is also a day to reflect on the power of words and the transformative impact literacy can have on people’s lives.
In Nigeria, the statistics tell a story we cannot afford to ignore. The literacy rate of 69% means that 31% of our fellow citizens are still grappling with illiteracy (Business Day Nigeria, 7 September 2022 – www.businessday.ng). This isn’t just a number; it is a stark reality with far-reaching consequences.
In this article, we would highlight some consequences of illiteracy in Nigeria as well as privileges of literate Nigerians.
Consequences of Illiteracy
- Reduced Economic Opportunities: Imagine a life where job opportunities are limited, and earning a decent living is an elusive dream. That’s the harsh reality for many illiterate individuals.
- Poor Health Outcomes: Access to health information is a luxury for the illiterate, leading to risky behaviours that can jeopardise their well-being.
- Increased Social Problems: Illiteracy is not just an individual’s burden; it can result in social issues such as crime, violence, and poverty, casting long shadows over our communities.
However, amidst these challenges, there is hope, and it shines brightly through the efforts of organisations like the Keeping It Real Foundation.
As a non-profit organisation, KIR Foundation has taken up the mantle to reduce illiteracy in Nigeria by igniting a beacon of change that lights the path to a brighter future.
Keeping It Real Foundation in the Past 12 Years
In the past 12 years of establishment. Keeping It Real Foundation has donated over 43,946 books and a good number of educational aids to schools and communities across the 36 states, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja Nigeria, and Ghana.
Though the year 2023 is not over, the foundation has taken its commitment to education and literacy a step further by establishing 4 Reading Corners in 4 states and donating 1,730 books and educational materials to schools, correctional centres, orphanages, and homes.
To commemorate the International Literacy Day 2023 and to ensure that the flame of literacy continues to burn brightly, Keeping It Real Foundation has partnered with Port Harcourt Global Shapers to send 150 out-of-school children in the slum settlement of Diobu, Mile 2, Port Harcourt, back to school as well as set up a Reading Corner within their reach in The Ascension Apostolic Church Diobu Assembly, Mile 2 Diobu.
Imagine these Reading Corners as oases of knowledge, where children can quench their thirst for learning. The books and educational materials, like precious seeds, are sown in fertile minds, nurturing the growth of literacy skills.
According to the foundation, what they do is beyond projects. “It is a force of change, a catalyst for transformation. This is because we understand that literacy is not just about reading and writing; it is about creating a just and equitable society for all Nigerians.”
Keeping It Real Foundation believes that change can be inspired through learning.
International Literacy Day: Privileges of Literate Nigerians
Here is celebrating some privileges of literate Nigerians:
- Employment and Prosperity: Literate individuals are more likely to secure employment and earn a higher income, breaking free from the cycle of poverty.
- Access to Healthcare and Education: Literacy opens doors to better healthcare and educational opportunities, nurturing healthier, more informed lives.
- Civic Engagement: Literate citizens actively participate in civic life, making informed decisions that shape our nation’s future.
- Strengthening Communities: Literacy empowers individuals to support their families and communities, building a stronger, more resilient society.
On International Literacy Day, we remind ourselves that literacy is not just a privilege; it is a fundamental human right that propels us toward endless possibilities. By championing literacy, we forge a path to a brighter, more prosperous Nigeria.
If you are eager to be part of this transformative journey, consider supporting the Keeping It Real (KIR) Foundation. You can make a difference by donating to their website (https://kirfoundation.org/) or dedicating your time as a volunteer.
Together, hand in hand, we can unlock the power of words, creating a Nigeria where every individual has the opportunity to thrive through the gift of literacy.
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Literacy is not a privilege for a few people, it is a fundamental human right that every Nigerian must have access to. It is the foundation for the development of any nation. It is the responsibility of everyone to ensure that we have a literate society. This, International Literacy Day, let us all reflect on what we can do to promote literacy!