The Aga Khan University’s Institute for Educational Development (IED) has today marked the International Literacy Day under the theme “Literacy in a digital world”.
The International Literacy Day is celebrated around the world to highlight literacy and to bring awareness to the importance of closing the literacy gap. It is celebrated annually worldwide and brings together governments, multi- and bilateral organizations, non-governmental organizations, private sector, communities, teachers
"The literacy rate in Tanzania has improved significantly since the 1980s, however, reading, writing and arithmetic remains a major challenge for children and adults, and this is mostly prominent in both rural and urban areas. It is therefore important for educators to note how literacy is evolving in order to equip students effectively for their personal and professional development. Literacy is a pillar to any education and having a specific day which focuses on literacy is important because reading, writing and arithmetic are important for any learning outcome.
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Joe Lugalla ,Director IED
, learners and experts in the field of education. The occasion is aimed at marking achievements that reflect on ways to counter there main challenges for the promotion of literacy as an integral part of lifelong learning within and beyond the 2030 Education Agenda. Globally, this is the kind of literacy skills people need to navigate the increasing digitally-mediated societies, and to explore effective literacy policies and programs that can leverage the opportunities that the digital world provides.
This year, IED conducted a panel discussion with its faculty members on literacy in Tanzania, with a focus on the current state of literacy in the country as well as the institution’s efforts and involvement in improving literacy rates in Tanzania to encompass solutions and idea generation. A small debate took place in question of whether: “Literacy in a Digital World” is it driving or is it neglecting?” Additionally, the IED library hosted a book exchange for IED staff with the aim of promoting new knowledge among members of staff, whilst replacing its old books with new ones.
Professor Joe Lugalla, who is the Director, IED in East Africa said “the literacy rate in Tanzania has improved significantly since the 1980s, however, reading, writing and arithmetic remains a major challenge for children and adults, and this is mostly prominent in both rural and urban areas. It is therefore important for educators to note how literacy is evolving in order to equip students effectively for their personal and professional development. Literacy is a pillar to any education and having a specific day which focuses on literacy is important because reading, writing and arithmetic are important for any learning outcome.”
At record speed, digital technologies are fundamentally changing the way people live, work, learn and socialize everywhere. They are giving new possibilities to people to improve all areas of their lives including access to information, knowledge management, networking, social services, industrial production and mode of work. However, those who lack access to digital technologies and the knowledge, skills and competencies required to navigate them, can end up marginalized in increasingly digitally driven societies. Literacy is one such essential skill.
Professor Lugalla addressed the digital perspective that borders this year’s theme when he said “just as knowledge, skills and competencies evolve in the digital world, so does the importance of being literate. In order to close the literacy skills gap and reduce inequalities, this year’s International Literacy Day will highlight the challenges and opportunities in promoting literacy in the digital world, a world where, despite progress, at least 750 million adults and 264 million out-of-school children still lack basic literacy skills”, said Professor Lugalla.
Since its establishment, IED has actively been involved in the promotion of literacy for social and economic transformation. It is one of the prime centres in East Africa that provides diverse programmes designed for the professional development of educators and educational researchers. In line with its vision to serve the developing world, IED has tailored its projects to address the literacy obstacles which hinder the progress of society in East Africa. After five years of dedicated involvement in the community, IED has established a presence as advocates for literacy in the region.
With its cutting edge and regionally relevant research and leading academic staff, the Institute works to develop and support the professionalization of teachers, educational leaders, managers and others in the field of education in nurturing innovation and improving the quality of education in East Africa.
