International Literacy Day, marked annually on September 8, is a UNESCO initiative that emphasises the importance of literacy as a fundamental human right and a matter of dignity. Since 1967, the day has served as a reminder of the global need to promote literacy and work towards building more literate and sustainable societies. It raises awareness about the essential role of literacy in empowering individuals and fostering societal development.
International Literacy Day 2024: Theme
The theme for International Literacy Day (ILD) 2024 is “Promoting multilingual education: Literacy for mutual understanding and peace.” According to UNESCO, this approach will harness the transformative potential of literacy to encourage mutual understanding, peace and social cohesion.
International Literacy Day 2024: Quotes
- “The roots of education are bitter, but the fruits are sweet.”– Aristotle
- “Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school.”– Albert Einstein
- “Upon the subject of education … I can only say that I view it as the most important subject which we as a people may be engaged in.”– Abraham Lincoln
- “Education is the ability to listen to almost anything without losing your temper or your self-confidence.”– Robert Frost
- “They cannot stop me. I will get my education if it is in the home, school, or any place.”– Malala Yousafzai
International Literacy Day 2024: Wishes
- Education is the door that opens, discovers, revives, and invents, a whole new world for you. Wishing you a happy International Literacy Day.
- The foundation of every society is its education, and so a key to a better society begins with literacy. Happy International Literacy Day!
- On this International Literacy Day, let’s spread the importance of education among each and every human in the world.
- Let education drive you to your passion and motivate you for a better tomorrow. Happy International Literacy Day!
- The only way to bring about positive change is by educating everyone, irrespective of their caste and class. This International Literacy Day, take a pledge to do your bit.
International Literacy Day 2024: How To Celebrate
ILD2024 will be celebrated in-person and online at the local, regional, national and global levels. The global celebration will be held by UNESCO on September 9 and 10 in Yaoundé, Cameroon. It will include a global conference and the award ceremony of the UNESCO International Literacy Prizes.
Other than this, one can participate in discussions on the ongoing literacy issues. These discussions not only provide a chance to listen and learn about the challenges our world faces but also encourage critical thinking about potential solutions.
In addition to that, students can also contribute to the betterment of society by donating books to public libraries, adoption centres, donation centres or any other places where individuals from diverse backgrounds can access these books.
International Literacy Day 2024: History
Literacy Day originated at the World Conference of Ministers of Education held in Tehran in 1965. However, it was in 1966 that UNESCO officially declared September 8 as International Literacy Day. At the time, the world was grappling with major challenges such as poverty, illiteracy, unemployment and inadequate healthcare. In 2015, the observance of this day became part of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) program, highlighting the vital role of literacy in global development.
International Literacy Day 2024: Significance
As per UNESCO, “literacy is the best cure,” and it is the key to ensuring that every individual has the right to education. Each year, UNESCO highlights different aspects of literacy in a changing world through varied themes. This year, the organization focuses on addressing literacy challenges in multilingual contexts to promote lasting peace.
It also explores solutions for improving policies, lifelong learning systems, governance, and practices. Furthermore, literacy is a key pillar of the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly in Sustainable Development Goal 4.
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