By Fattyma Ibrahim
Literacy is an integral part of the right to education and the foundation of lifelong learning as well as a driver for sustainable development.
The campaign serves as a reminder that the right to education is a right to lifelong learning that knows no age limits.
This year’s International Literacy Day (ILD) under the theme, ‘Promoting literacy for a world in transition: Building the foundation for sustainable and peaceful societies’ will be an opportunity to join efforts to accelerate progress towards the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4) on education and lifelong learning and to reflect on the role of literacy in building more inclusive, peaceful, just, and sustainable societies.
Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa, is a nation of immense diversity, rich cultural heritage, and untapped potential. Yet, despite its abundant resources, Nigeria faces several socio-economic challenges, including poverty, inequality, and periodic conflicts.
Literacy rate in Nigeria
They put the literacy rate in Nigeria at 77.62 percent in 2021. Between 2010 to 2021, the literacy rate of Nigeria grew by 13.9 per cent. On a year-on-year basis, the literacy rate increased by 0.13 per cent in 2021.
Literacy is more than just the ability to read and write. It is a fundamental skill that empowers individuals to access information, participate in the economy, make informed decisions, and engage in the democratic process.
In Nigeria, where millions still lack basic literacy skills, one cannot overstate the importance of addressing this issue.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari’s proposed 2023 budgetary allocation to education was N1.79 trillion for the sector, representing about 8.8 per cent of the total N20.5 trillion proposal.
The proposal, however, is still less than half of the percentage recommended by the global education agency, UNESCO, for expenditure on the sector.
Literacy
Literacy is a powerful driver of economic growth and individual prosperity. A literate population is better equipped to secure employment, start and manage businesses, and contribute to the nation’s economic development. Improved literacy rates can reduce poverty and provide a pathway for Nigerians to escape the cycle of economic hardship.
More than 50 percent of Nigeria’s over 200 million population do not have digital skills and therefore cannot use data services, according to the 2021 World Bank Development report.
Illiteracy can be a breeding ground for social discord and conflict. When individuals lack access to education and information, they may be more susceptible to manipulation and extremist ideologies.
It’s not just children who benefit from literacy programs; adults can also experience life-changing transformations. Adult literacy programs can provide opportunities for those who missed out on education during their youth. This inclusivity in literacy efforts is critical for ensuring no one is left behind.
Empowering women through literacy is a particularly potent strategy. Educated women tend to have smaller families, better health outcomes, and increased earning potential. When women empower themselves, they bring benefits to entire communities.
Benefits of literacy
While the benefits of literacy are clear, challenges persist. Nigeria faces obstacles such as limited access to quality education, inadequate funding, and regional disparities in literacy rates. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach.
A 2022 UNESCO report observed that approximately 20 million individuals in Nigeria, out of its over 200 million population, are not enrolled in school. This amounts to 20 percent of Nigeria’s entire population and is more than the overall population of various countries in Africa.
The government needs to Increase funding for education at all levels, from primary to tertiary, is crucial. Adequate resources must be allocated to training teachers, providing infrastructure, and developing curriculum materials.
Expanding adult literacy programs will enable older generations to acquire vital skills, enhancing their participation in the workforce and civic life.
A population with literacy is better equipped to build a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable future for Nigeria.
As the nation observes World Literacy Day, it is an opportune moment to renew our commitment to making quality education and literacy accessible to all Nigerians, regardless of age, gender, or socio-economic status. By doing so, we can unlock the full potential of this great nation and build a brighter, more inclusive future for all.