“A Boy on Horseback” Photo credit: I-Stock with permission
I first saw him, a young boy on horseback, dressed in national costume, riding the grassy slopes of the steppe lands of Outer Mongolia, where my work, at that time, took me. The boy set out, early in the morning, on horseback. I was told by the Mongolian host that he was headed for school some 30 miles distant. It was through this encounter that I learned that, despite the hardships that the country was enduring at the time, a commitment to free compulsory schooling remained a pervasive cultural value with an emphasis on reading and writing.
One of the results of such nationwide policy, arising during the 20th century socialist period and continuing, is the astounding level of adult literacy in the country. Even today, Outer Mongolia is a leader in global literacy tables. Between 98-99% of the population read and write. Even given such success, further moves are now being taken to strengthen the reading skills of children under 5. What a tremendous example of global possibility as on September 8, each year, International Literacy Day (ILD) is celebrated.
First declared by UNESCO in 1996, this year International Literacy Day is celebrating a 60-year anniversary with a gathering in Mexico entitled, “Literacy for the People, Planet and Prosperity”. The celebration of ILD serves as a reminder that reading and writing are basic human rights opening the door to other rights. Having literacy skills helps to significantly reduce poverty, enhance health, create equality and social growth–offering possibility across the globe. As former Secretary-General of the United Nations, Kofi Annan, has said: “Literacy is a bridge between misery and hope.”
As well as traditional “book-skills”, ILD has also encouraged effective and responsible engagement with digital media. Of note, however, this year are recent initiatives, led by the Scandinavian countries, to move away from digital-first classrooms to reverse a decline in reading comprehension and dropping literacy skills. A return to the use of physical books and handwriting, while not discounting gifts of the digital age, are being shown by scientists and educators to improve focus, comprehension and memory retention.
So, how might we celebrate International Literacy Day this year and contribute to the gift of literacy? Ideas may include making financial contributions to global and national projects that encourage reading and writing given that millions still lack these skills. More locally, reading with our children, inviting inclusive story gatherings, gifting books for our family and friends, hosting book drives to match teacher’s wish lists, volunteering to tutor children or adults, exchanging books with others, holding book clubs, promoting the use of libraries near us all help to raise awareness, enjoyment and social possibilities.
Next time we are nestled down with a good book or journalling the gift of our life’s journey, let’s also celebrate, with gratitude, these gifts. In the words of Pam Allyn, American literacy expert, “Reading is like breathing in and writing is like breathing out”- an essential then for a life well lived!
-Sister Mary Rowell, CSJ