TO raise international awareness of and concern for literacy problems within communities, International Literacy Day is celebrated on September 8 each year. This year’s observance highlights the importance of literacy in health and education, with strong emphasis on epidemics and communicable diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria. First celebrated in 1996, the day reminds the international community of the status of literacy and adult learning globally.

In its simplest definition, literacy means being able to read, write, and count. It is an indispensable tool for everyone in society and necessary for everyone’s survival. Based on a United Nations, Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) report, this basic skill, however, is denied to approximately 26 percent of the world’s adult population, two thirds of whom are women.

Statistics further show that most non-literates live in developing countries. The history of literacy goes back several thousand years to the invention of writing, to the days when it was a secret of professional scribes and in areas where literacy was measured by the ability to recite passages of scripture. In today’s world, it has become critically important for sustainable development, peace, and democracy.

Despite the efforts and achievements in the past, illiteracy rates are still high. Renewed efforts worldwide continue to identify and implement alternative approaches for the creation of literate communities. In some regions of the world, illiteracy has been enforced as a way of preventing unrest or revolution. The ability to read and write has become an essential part of a cycle of development including education, health, human rights, and the upliftment of the lives of people worldwide.

Literacy benefits both individuals and communities. Learning to read boosts self-esteem and provides important new skills. In many parts of the world, new literates now qualify for desirable jobs which had previously gone to outsiders.

The effects of literacy extend beyond personal benefits and are priceless. It has the ingredients that will give people newfound confidence and improved self-esteem that will spill into all aspects of his life and the community to which they belong.