International Literacy Day will be celebrated on Sunday, September 8 under the theme ‘Promoting Multilingual Education: Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace’.

Traditionally, literacy was limited to merely the ability to read and write. However, in the 21st century, new literacies, such as critical literacy, digital literacy, visual literacy, health literacy, among others have emerged. With this understanding, we are required to change how we view literacy.

Globalisation has provided opportunities to interact with people all around the world. In order to do this, they must be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for this engagement. It is, therefore, important for individuals to be exposed to different languages so that they can communicate with people from other cultures and have an appreciation for their way of life. This will result in civic efficacy.

The beauty of literacy is that it can be integrated with other disciplines. Literacy should not be viewed in isolation. There was a time when the ability to read and write would be considered literate; however, if one is unable to navigate the technological platforms, engage respectfully with others, understand matters concerning the economy, then one would be considered woefully lacking in areas of digital, social, and financial literacies.

Furthermore, research has shown that literacy has immense benefits which is inclusive of, but not limited to, the development of employable skills, higher wages, and job satisfaction. The individual as well as the society benefits from literacy since it creates opportunities for innovation and economic growth. Understanding the multifaceted approach to literacy will yield these positive results.

In an attempt to promote multilingual education and gain mutual understanding and peace that can be derived from literacy, all hands and hearts should come together. In other words, literacy is everybody’s business.

To begin with, an appreciation and understanding of literacy should begin in the home. Parents should start reading to their children from they are in the womb and create a print-rich environment for them as they grow. Literacy involves comprehension, as such parents should create an environment in which children can critically analyse what they have read, watched, or listen to. Creativity plays a pivotal role in enabling children to embrace the multiple literacies. Parents and children can watch a story online or an appropriate movie which has moral values. After which, they can engage their children in discussion, asking open-ended questions to help children express themselves. This is a great way for parents to bond with their children as well as teach them critical thinking. It is imperative to note that children spend most of their time with their parents; parents should make that time count.

Coupled with the role of parents, teachers also have a role to play in building on what parents would have started at home. For this to be achieved, teachers have to employ effective strategies to meet the needs of students in this digital age. Therefore, teachers themselves should be knowledgeable about these literacies. Teachers will set the stage for children to become responsible citizens who can relate to people all around the world. As such, I am a proponent of exposing students to at least one foreign language from an early age. Thus making students better able to function effectively in society.

Literacy is a key component in cultivating mutual understanding and peace. It should not be taken lightly. It is imperative that students are given the tools that will make them marketable and functional in any 21st century society.

Shauna-Kay Douglas

Reading teacher

douglasshauna91@yahoo.com