International Literacy Day 2023 is being held on the 8th of September. A highly celebrated day that has taken place annually since 1967. Each year there is a different theme, with this year covering the topic of “Promoting literacy for a world in transition: Building the foundation for sustainable and peaceful societies”. Whether you are a literacy novice or have taken part in it every year you can. At SISD, as a leading IB day and boarding school in Dubai, we value the importance of literacy highly, so we are here to tell you everything you need to know about this international day and what you can do to celebrate it.
What Is International Literacy Day?
International Literacy Day, run with the help of UNESCO, underscores the vital importance of literacy worldwide. This day serves as a recognition of the fundamental role that reading, writing, and comprehension play in shaping societies and the lives of individuals.
Marked by a specific theme each year, such as “Promoting literacy for a world in transition“, International Literacy Day emphasises the close link between literacy and leadership. UNESCO’s digital platform acts as a hub for a range of resources, events, and educational activities. From awareness campaigns to practical workshops, the platform facilitates engagement with initiatives that spotlight literacy’s significance as more than just a basic skill.
On International Literacy Day, the global community of learners, educators, and advocates comes together to acknowledge the gift of literacy. Through this celebration, the commitment to developing knowledge and ensuring equal access to literacy for all becomes resoundingly clear. This day serves as a reminder that literacy is a universal right, granting voices the ability to be heard and understood across borders and boundaries.
What Can You Do To Join In?
At SISD we love to get our students and teachers involved with International Literacy Day, but there are ways where you can get involved at home too,
Spread Awareness
You can kickstart your involvement by raising awareness about International Literacy Day 2023 within your local community and on social media platforms. Share informative posts, facts, and statistics about the importance of literacy, and use relevant hashtags to amplify your message such as #literacyday.
Attend Events
UNESCO’s digital platform is a treasure trove of events, workshops, and webinars centred around literacy. You can participate in these informative sessions to expand your understanding of literacy-related issues, gain insights, and learn about effective approaches to promoting literacy.
Attend Workshops
Consider attending or taking your children to a literacy-focused workshop or seminar in your community. This could include reading sessions, storytelling events, or basic literacy skills workshops for those who may be struggling with reading and writing. If you are not already, have a look at joining our SISD Parents Association, this is a fantastic way to get involved with our community of parents at SISD and see what workshops and events are available.
Donate or Volunteer
Many organisations and NGOs dedicated to literacy advancement accept donations or volunteers. Contribute your time, resources, or expertise to support their initiatives aimed at improving literacy rates and access to education.
Start Or Join A Reading Club
If you know of local reading clubs for your children, you can encourage them to join. Or if you are unsure where to join, try launching your own reading club in your neighbourhood or online. This is a fantastic way to encourage your children to come together to discuss books, exchange ideas, and foster a love for reading. This simple initiative can have a significant impact on promoting literacy among children.
Write and Share
Encourage your children to get creative, write a story or a poem. They can share among friends and promote the buzz around writing. Encouraging your child to write and share can nurture an avenue for self-expression, boost communication skills, and cultivate a sense of confidence that will empower them throughout their journey of growth and learning and encourage their peers to follow suit.
Support Literacy Campaigns
Various literacy campaigns and initiatives are launched by governments, organisations, and individuals. Contribute to these campaigns by actively participating, donating, or spreading the word to increase their impact.
Encourage Others
Inspire your friends, family members, and other parents by talking about the International Literacy Day movement. Share your enthusiasm for literacy and encourage them to participate, creating a ripple effect that can lead to broader awareness and engagement.
Remember, your contribution, no matter how small, can make a meaningful difference in promoting International Literacy Day 2023 on a global scale. By taking part, you’re contributing to a brighter future for individuals and communities around the world.
How International Literacy Day 2023 Can Benefit Your Child
Literacy can greatly benefit your child by enhancing their academic performance, promoting a love for learning, and equipping them with essential skills for success. Proficiency in literacy allows children to comprehend and engage with various subjects, enabling them to grasp complex concepts, follow instructions, and excel in assignments and exams, all aspects needed to achieve great success in the International baccalaureate curriculum we provide our students. Moreover, literacy opens doors to a world of knowledge, encouraging children to explore a wide range of subjects and develop a curious, inquisitive mindset.
Effective literacy skills also facilitate effective communication which can highly benefit them within the classroom and after-school activities. Improved literacy enables children to express their thoughts, ideas, and questions clearly. This empowers them to actively participate in class discussions, collaborate with peers, and build positive relationships with teachers. As children read and write, they sharpen their critical thinking abilities, enabling them to analyse information, evaluate arguments, and make informed decisions. This skill set not only contributes to their academic growth but also prepares them for lifelong learning and problem-solving.
Furthermore, strong literacy skills contribute to improved self-esteem and confidence. As children see their writing and reading abilities evolve, they gain a sense of accomplishment and pride in their achievements. This confidence extends beyond the classroom, positively influencing their social interactions and after-school activities. In essence, International Literacy Day nurtures well-rounded, capable individuals who are better positioned to navigate the challenges and opportunities that come their way during their school years and beyond. If you want to know more about how we are celebrating International Literacy Day at SISD please don’t hesitate to contact us.
