What is International Literacy Day?
First established by the United Nations more than 50 years ago, International Literacy Day is celebrated annually on September 8.
This global observance reminds us that literacy is an essential skill, not only for personal growth but for the strength of communities and nations. The United Nations’ goal is that all youths, and a large percentage of adults, achieve literacy and numeracy by 2030.
The Power of Literacy
Imagine childhood without your favorite book. Driving without being able to read the road signs. Eating a snack without being able to check if it contains that ingredient you’re allergic to.
The ability to read is something many of us take for granted — but for children and adults living in poverty, it can be out of reach.
Reading helps us grow. It helps us imagine. It helps us participate in the world around us. But today, global literacy rates show that millions of children and adults still lack the ability to read or write.
Connecting the Dots Between Poverty and Illiteracy
For millions of children and families living in poverty, not being able to read or write means more than missing out on books. It drastically impacts their quality of life. Being able to read helps us build new skills, which is vitally important for any individual’s development.
Illiteracy limits job prospects. It increases vulnerability to trafficking and exploitation. It can silence a child’s dreams. And when individuals aren’t able to achieve their potential or even provide for themselves, this weakens communities and even nations.
“There remain today 758 million adults who cannot read or write a simple sentence … These women and men are more vulnerable to ill health, exploitation and human rights abuse.”
— Irina Bokova, former director-general of UNESCO
Education Isn’t Guaranteed For Children in Poverty
Sadly, poverty limits education for many children. In many parts of the world, school isn’t free. It’s a costly choice that families often can’t afford.
Each day, parents must choose between making ends meet or sending their children to school.
Mothers weigh the loss of an extra set of hands in the family business.
Fathers worry about the miles-long walk to the nearest school.
And even if school is free to attend, the cost of books, uniforms and supplies often becomes a burden families can’t carry.
The reality is that millions of children living in poverty are unable to attend school. They may never learn to read or write. They may never have the chance to fully explore their God-given potential.
But that doesn’t have to be the end of the story.
How Compassion Supports Education for Children in Poverty
Compassion partners with local churches to support children with education, learning materials and tutoring in a safe environment. Sponsors and donors make that possible by equipping churches to serve their communities and help children grow.
Through Compassion’s program, children are fully cared for. They’re introduced to the gospel and receive medical care, nutrition support, protection from abuse and more. With these needs met and their tuition and learning supplies provided, children are free to attend school and focus on learning, without the distraction of an empty stomach or worry about the future.
They can learn to read and write and go on to develop their passions and gifts, leading to a fulfilling, self-sufficient future.
“Literacy is a bridge from misery to hope … For everyone, everywhere, literacy is, along with education in general, a basic human right.”
— Kofi Annan, former secretary-general of the United Nations
What Happens When a Child Learns to Read?
Imagine the possibilities.
An 8-year-old girl in a small village has never stepped foot in a classroom. Her family lives in poverty and could never afford to send her to school. But thanks to support from a local church, she becomes the first in her family to attend.
On her first day, she’s nervous. She puts on her new uniform while her mother prepares breakfast. She ties her shoes, grabs her bag of books and heads out the door.
When she gets to school, she is greeted by new friends and a smiling teacher. She begins to learn. She begins to hope. And because of this new opportunity, she gains new skills that will not only set her up for success but will impact her family and community.
Because she can read, she will be able to:
Continue her education.
Avoid early marriage.
Learn about and advocate for her own rights.
Help provide for her family when she’s older.
Discover the love of God in the pages of Scripture.
And when someone asks, "What would you like to be when you grow up?" She smiles.
Because for the first time in her life, she believes something better than poverty is possible.
Help A Child Stay in School
In partnership with local churches, Compassion’s Educational Needs Fund helps children in poverty stay in school, grow in confidence and pursue their God-given potential.
This fund supports students beyond primary school by providing the resources they need to continue learning and build a better future. It also equips young people with the literacy and skills development they need to navigate today’s world.
Your gift helps provide:
Books and school supplies.
School uniforms and fees.
Literacy training and tutoring.
Give today to help a student stay in school and gain the tools to thrive.
