Literacy in a Larger Context

Illiteracy is a social phenomenon reflecting structural problems of society; therefore, the nature of the illiteracy problem can be better understood and the solutions found by looking at the larger social context. The complexity and social ramifications of illiteracy make it inappropriate to talk about eradication of illiteracy by a certain date. Literacy is not merely learning the mechanics of decoding the alphabet. To be meaningful, literacy must help meet people's basic learning needs, and, to that end, it must be reinforced and supplemented by a network of opportunities for diverse and continuing education and post-literacy learning. Effective primary education for children and the use of all channels of communication and education to create a learning society are essential conditions for nurturing a culture of literacy. Participation of all segments of society and additional resources are needed to promote literacy as an integral part of the effort to meet basic education needs. The research agenda in literacy should include, in addition to technical aspects, the exploration of policy issues relating to the role of literacy in a larger social context.