Dear Editor – Perhaps it is essential to voice out concerns and view with regards to the work and pathway of literacy in the country.
As we observe world international literacy day today, Solomon Islands need to look seriously and get down to rural area to address the literacy basic skills to illiterates. There are quite number of adults and youth illiterates who are in the rural area. Sure 80 per cent of Solomon are in the scattered islands of the country. They should be able to access literacy to acquire broader knowledge in the concept of in reading and writing skills.
Literacy is a tool for sustainable development and education. And I quote UN Secretary General Ban-Ki-Moon message statement in 2010 world literacy day. He said, literacy in our knowledge based era, it is a foundation for a more just conclusive and sustainable world. He further stated other important areas as key to literacy. It enables people to gain access to information to improve their health and nutrition, widen their livelihood options, cope with environmental change and make informed choices. As we strive forward, let as share reflections of the past. We as a country of diverse cultures, ethnic background in our own soil. We must work in chain relationship, to move forward in addressing the important work in SI.
However, non profitable government organization such as literacy association of Solomon Islands with other partners is working very hard on a framework strategy for the people of Solomon Islands. There was a tool of assessment in literacy trial for the illiterates which piloted in the Guadalcanal areas by acts 1:8 project.
It is effective and proved to be a guideline approach to the rural people in the country, where illiterates are assessed and literacy applied to them. Functional literacy assessment tool FLAT-is to be carried out on two different times. In the beginning approach and after the fulltime class, it is to ensure illiterate are gaining basic skills of reading and writing.
Literacy advocates and literacy provides, I urge you all once again to work hard. Government, donor partners and other organization in the country will see the need. They will step into help in an unexpected time. In God we trust in our work as we are doing the work of his people. Let’s dedicate the work to him as there’s nothing impossible. The pressing message in literacy day for us hardworking trainers, advocators and literacy providers is ‘nothing is impossible’. As we roll out to reach illiterates in the rural area.
I concluded to acknowledge the continued support of business partners, solrice company ltd, especially for cordial recognition of literacy in Solomon Islands. MP for langa langa lagoon, Mr Mathew Wale. DCC government and appeal to private sectors, other NGOs are instrumental. World Vision is also commended on its commitment in partnership with READ SI, and LASI. I once again salute your commitment and hard work in literacy across our shores, ‘to lead is to serve’ is sovereign motto in Solomon Islands. God bless the nation and her people as we year mark literacy in the country.
Simon Peter Salopuka
Literacy league S.I
