Every year, on September 8th, the world unites to celebrate International Literacy Day. This occasion, established by UNESCO in 1966, underscores literacy as a fundamental human right and the cornerstone of lifelong learning, personal development, and societal progress. It’ is vital to note that literacy goes beyond reading and writing; it embodies empowerment, comprehension, and communication. Literacy serves as the bedrock for acquiring knowledge, engaging in social, cultural, and economic activities, and making informed choices. Over the years, literacy has played a pivotal role in breaking the cycle of poverty, mitigating inequalities, and fostering sustainable development.
In today’s information-driven world, literacy takes on greater significance. It encompasses not only the ability to navigate written text but also to critically assess the vast ocean of information available, including digital media. This multidimensional facet of literacy aligns seamlessly with the theme for International Literacy Day 2023: “Promoting Literacy for a World in Transition: Building the Foundation for Sustainable and Peaceful Societies.” This theme underscores the symbiotic relationship between literacy and the acquisition of essential life skills. In our rapidly changing world, traditional literacy skills must harmonise with the ability to adapt, learn, and acquire new skills throughout one’s life. This theme emphasizes literacy’s role in catalyzing continuous personal and professional growth.
Despite significant strides in global education, illiteracy persists as a formidable global challenge. According to UNESCO, approximately 773 million adults worldwide lack basic literacy skills. This gap disproportionately affects women, rural communities, and marginalised groups. Illiteracy isn’t merely an individual issue; it has sweeping societal implications, impeding economic growth, social cohesion, and the realisation of human rights. To tackle this challenge effectively, it’s imperative to understand the root causes, consequences, and potential solutions related to illiteracy.
In Sierra Leone, illiteracy is one of the driving factors behind women’s incarceration. A study conducted in 2019 by AdvocAid and The Cyrus R. Vance Centre for International Justice, titled- Woman Wahala na Prison – Causes and Consequences of Women’s Incarceration in Sierra Leone, reveals that incarcerated women in Sierra Leone often share common social factors. These factors include economic disadvantage, being primary caretakers of young children, survivors of violence, illiteracy, and unmet mental health needs. The study also uncovers disturbing instances of police misconduct, where illiterate women were coerced into confessing to crimes they didn’t understand. They were presented with written statements and forced to thumbprint confessions, even when they couldn’t read or comprehend the charges against them.
This research underscores the urgent need for legal literacy and education programmess to empower marginalised and illiterate women in Sierra Leone. Such programmes can help them understand their rights, resist coercion, and navigate the legal system more effectively. Additionally, the study highlights the necessity for legal system reforms, improved police training, and gender-sensitive practices to ensure fairness and justice for all, regardless of literacy or social vulnerability. Addressing illiteracy among women is a crucial step towards building a more equitable, sustainable and peaceful society.
One of AdvocAid’s core strategic directions is creating opportunities for women and girls. Many women in Sierra Leone do not have access to educational opportunities. Over the years, AdvocAid has partnered with organisations like EducAid to provide women and girls with educational opportunities through knowledge of their rights and the provision of literacy and numeracy skills. One of the women we work with who benefitted from these classes and is now out of the Correctional Centre, had this to say,
“Because of my new skills, I am now the chairperson of the local market-women, and am able to keep all the financial records in order.
When I am not working in the market, I teach the children in my neighbourhood how to read and write using methods that I learned during my incarceration. My education certificate proves to people that I can read, write and do mathematics. It is one of my proudest achievements.”
Check more of her story here
Miriam’s story highlights the critical need to address women’s illiteracy which is therefore, a vital component of empowering them to assert their legal rights, escape abusive environments, and secure a brighter future. It involves not only teaching women to read and write but also providing them with legal literacy – an understanding of their rights and how to navigate the legal system.
If we are truly committed to building the foundation for sustainable and peaceful societies, we must prioritise the education and empowerment of women and girls who are often the most marginalised and victims of structural inequality. It’s not just a matter of social justice; it’s a fundamental necessity for progress, equality, and lasting peace. By eradicating illiteracy and providing legal education, we create a society where every woman has the opportunity to thrive, breaking the chains of poverty, vulnerability, and injustice.
Join us on this journey as we promote literacy for a world in transition by donating to our work on Global Giving