Expanding the definition of literacy in the age of AI, international literacy day, september 8, ai, latest, language, news update

Today marks the annual celebration of International Literacy Day (ILD), an event that has been observed worldwide since 1967 to raise awareness about the critical role literacy plays in building just, peaceful, and sustainable societies. As the world gathers to commemorate this day, it is essential to reflect on the evolving concept of literacy in an era dominated by technological advancements, especially Artificial Intelligence (AI).

In 2024, literacy is no longer confined to the ability to read and write. It has grown to encompass a broader spectrum that includes language literacy, cultural literacy, and technological literacy—each playing an increasingly vital role in shaping the future of global societies.

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Literacy has always been recognised as a fundamental human right, unlocking opportunities for greater freedom, equality, and the pursuit of a fulfilling life. It empowers individuals to engage fully in civic life, understand and protect their rights, and contribute to the development of their communities. More than a skill, literacy is a gateway to acquiring knowledge, values, and attitudes necessary for fostering lasting peace, respect for diversity, and global citizenship.

Yet, despite decades of progress, the global literacy gap remains alarming. In 2022, at least 754 million adults, or one in seven people aged 15 and above, lacked basic literacy skills. Furthermore, millions of children continue to struggle with reading, writing, and numeracy, and approximately 250 million children between the ages of 6 and 18 are out of school, facing the risk of lifelong educational disadvantage.

This year’s International Literacy Day is celebrated under the theme “Promoting multilingual education: Literacy for mutual understanding and peace,” a timely reflection on the importance of language diversity in today’s interconnected world. Multilingualism is a daily reality for many people across the globe, yet traditional education systems have often overlooked the value of teaching in multiple languages, particularly those that are native to students.

As such, ILD2024 emphasizes the need to embrace a multilingual approach to literacy development, one that respects and incorporates local languages as the foundation of learning. This approach is not only more inclusive but also offers significant cognitive, pedagogical, and socio-economic benefits. Research has shown that children who learn in their mother tongue in the early years of education achieve higher levels of academic success, while adults gain a stronger sense of cultural identity and community belonging when their native language is respected.

The theme of multilingual education also aligns with broader goals of fostering mutual understanding and peace in a world that is increasingly divided along linguistic, cultural, and political lines. By promoting literacy through a first language-based, multilingual approach, educators can help bridge cultural divides, promote respect for diversity, and reinforce the values of solidarity and justice.

This approach is especially relevant in regions where language differences have historically contributed to social tensions and conflict. Through multilingual education, literacy can become a tool for building bridges between communities, strengthening social cohesion, and creating the foundation for long-lasting peace.

However, as we reflect on the importance of language in literacy, it is crucial to recognize that literacy in the 21st century must encompass more than just linguistic abilities. Cultural literacy—the ability to understand and appreciate different cultures, beliefs, and traditions—has become increasingly important in a world where globalization and migration are reshaping national identities and societal norms.

As people from diverse backgrounds come into closer contact, cultural literacy allows individuals to navigate these complexities with greater empathy, tolerance, and mutual respect. Education systems must adapt to ensure that students are equipped not only with academic knowledge but also with the cultural competencies needed to engage with an increasingly diverse and interconnected world.

Equally important in today’s digital age is technological literacy, or what can be termed “techno literacy.” The rapid advancement of AI and other digital technologies has transformed nearly every aspect of daily life, from how we communicate and work to how we access information and services. For individuals to thrive in this environment, they must possess not only basic digital skills but also the ability to understand and interact with complex technologies.

As AI continues to reshape industries and the global job market, those lacking in technological literacy risk being excluded from economic opportunities and the benefits of technological progress. Ensuring that literacy efforts address this critical skill gap is essential for creating an inclusive society where all individuals can participate in and benefit from the digital economy.

In 2024, the global celebration of International Literacy Day will be hosted in Yaoundé, Cameroon, on 9 and 10 September. The event will feature a global conference, the presentation of UNESCO’s International Literacy Prizes, and various side events that highlight the importance of lifelong learning and alternative education in addressing the literacy gap. The celebration in Cameroon will also provide an opportunity to spotlight the literacy agenda in Africa, a region where significant challenges remain in achieving universal literacy. The discussions will explore strategies for promoting literacy in multilingual contexts and improving educational policies and programs to support lifelong learning, particularly for marginalized and vulnerable populations.

As the world observes International Literacy Day, it is an opportunity to reflect on the evolving nature of literacy in an era of rapid technological change. Literacy remains the cornerstone of human rights and global citizenship, but it must now be understood in its broader dimensions.

Language literacy, cultural literacy, and technological literacy are all critical to navigating the complexities of the modern world. By embracing this expanded definition of literacy, societies can ensure that individuals are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to thrive in a world that is more interconnected and technologically advanced than ever before. In doing so, we move closer to realizing the vision of a more inclusive, just, and peaceful global community.

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