In celebration of literacy - because it's important!
This week International Literacy Day was celebrated both in Saskatchewan and worldwide.
"I'm pleased that Saskatchewan will once again join in celebrating the International Day of Literacy and that we're highlighting the important role that literacy plays in the quality of life in our province," says Education Minister Don Morgan. "Strong literacy skills foster life-long learning, set the basis for skill development and encourage civic engagement which will help us reach the targets in the Plan for Growth."
While we may all assume reading is a skill we all take for granted the reality is, it's not the case. Statistics say almost half (48 per cent) of Canadians aged 16 and over have low literacy skills. They scored below Level 3; 55 per cent of Canadians aged 16 and over scored below Level 3 in numeracy; and 40 per cent of adults (16 years and over) have below Level 3 literacy levels. Just in Saskatchewan 33 per cent of adults (aged 16-65) score at Level 1 and Level 2; and a whopping 75 per cent of adults (65 and over) have below Level 3 levels.
While there are likely many reasons for these statistics, anything we can do to turn the trend is good news for the province as a whole. That's where funding and persistence come in.
The Saskatchewan Literacy Network (SLN) is an important partner in providing literacy leadership in Saskatchewan. The SLN receives funding from the Government of Saskatchewan for a variety of programming including adult, community and family literacy programs.
"As the SLN celebrates its 25th anniversary, we are committed to supporting literacy and learning for life in Saskatchewan," SLN Executive Director Karen Rosser said. "Literacy is about how we learn and grow, prepare for a constantly changing world and workplace and interact with society and our communities."
The proclamation of Literacy Day in Saskatchewan acknowledges the tradition started by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) nearly 50 years ago. Since 1965, UNESCO has been celebrating Literacy Day by reminding the international community that literacy is a human right and is foundational for all learning.
Why not teach a reader today?
