HONIARA City Council, along with World Vision and other agencies across Honiara are coming together to support this year’s International Literacy Day today (Thursday 8th September).
This year’s theme – “Reading the Past, Writing the Future” is all about encouraging people of all ages, backgrounds and ethnicities to learn to read and write no matter where in the world you live.
HCC’s Education Head of Division, Wayne Koebule says being able to read and write opens doors to a new world of possibilities for everyone.
“Education does start at home, and I want to urge parents, families and caregivers to encourage your children and young adults to learn to read and write. You don’t need to learn this at school or church, home is a great classroom. It’s amazing where the skill of reading and writing will take you.
“Literacy is a foundation on which we can build a more sustainable future,” says Mr Koebule.
World Vision’s in-country sector specialist for Education, Margi Martin, says literacy is an essential part of development in the Solomon Islands.
“We have found that illiterate adults are less likely to engage in community activities and World Vision initiatives due to lack of confidence and skills.”
“And this applies to youth as well. For young people, being able to read and write can help foster a vision for the future, increase their sense of social responsibility, and reduce substance abuse.
“There is a strong demand for literacy and literacy training in many of the communities in which we work,” says Mrs Martin.
HCC Education and Library staff will join with partners and other agencies, including members of LASI – Literacy Association of Solomon Islands, in a parade on Thursday 8th September, leaving the Council carpark at 8.30am and finishing at the Museum where a day of celebration, stalls and book readings are planned.
As part of Literacy Day celebrations, the Council is launching its first ever Library Week, which will start on Monday 5th September until Friday 9th September, with a range of activities planned for all ages.