Swift Current residents are encouraged to celebrate International Literacy Day during a series of recognition events.
September 8 is International Literacy Day, and Great Plains College in partnership with the Southwest Literacy Committee are recognizing the “Literacy For All” themed day.
“Great Plains College works year-round to promote literacy and lifelong learning through the adult education and English language training programs in particular,” explains Bula Ghosh, Southwest Literacy Committee member and Literacy Coordinator at Great Plains College. “We are excited to be working with our partners to raise awareness for the importance of literacy for everyone in our community.”
According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), opportunities to acquire and improve literacy skills throughout life is an integral part of the right to education.
UNESCO highlights that there is a “multiplier effect” to literacy, which empowers people, enables them to participate fully in society, and contributes to improve livelihoods. It is an intrinsic part of sustainable development and has a significant effect in labour market participation, child family health and nutrition, poverty reduction and in increasing life’s opportunities.
Globally, 758 million youth and adults do not read and write. Approximately 250 million children do not have basic literacy skills. In Canada, four out of 10 adults do not have functional literacy skills. This is a matter of concern in our knowledge-based economy in Canada.
“We are excited the City of Swift Current has agreed to proclaim September 10 to 16 as International Literacy Week, and we want to encourage other individuals and community agencies to participate in their own special way to promote literacy,” says Ghosh. “Literacy effects our lives in many ways. Let us participate in lifelong learning and create a better tomorrow for all.”
Great Plains College will celebrate International Literacy Day on Thursday, September 8, with evening events occurring at select locations around Swift Current and a literacy display at the college; members of the public are invited to join. The Swift Current Library and Newcomer Welcome Centre will also be hosting events during the week of the City of Swift Current’s proclamation.
