The Togolese Press Agency reports that the Kara regional directorate of Solidarity, Gender, Family, and Child Protection celebrated International Literacy Day on October 8 in Soumdina. The event, held under the theme "Literacy for Peoples, Planet, and Prosperity," aimed to raise awareness about the significance of reading, writing, and arithmetic in individual and collective development. The celebration was attended by local authorities, educators, and community members.
Awidjolo Kpatcha, the prefectural director of Solidarity, Gender, Family, and Child Protection in Kozah, emphasized that International Literacy Day seeks to mobilize governments, media, and populations to combat illiteracy. He noted that literacy is a crucial lever for personal development and socio-economic progress. According to Kpatcha, despite progress in recent decades, approximately 739 million young people and adults worldwide lacked basic literacy skills in 2024.
The event featured a presentation by Kantcha Laré, a professor of descriptive linguistics at the University of Kara. Laré highlighted the role of education in preventing conflicts and reducing prejudices. He explained that understanding social realities and information can help prevent certain diseases and avoid misunderstandings that can undermine social cohesion. Laré encouraged the community to adopt the theme and promote the establishment of new literacy centers.
Awaté Alimata Massamasso, a counselor, addressed the importance of enrolling in Sunday schools, which are available in several communes. She encouraged participants to acquire basic education and gradually overcome illiteracy. Massamasso's presentation aimed to empower community members, particularly women and out-of-school youth, to take control of their educational development.
The International Literacy Day celebration in Soumdina provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss the challenges and opportunities related to literacy in Togo. Participants acknowledged that literacy is essential for sustainable development, social justice, and economic growth. They also recognized the need for collaborative efforts to address the root causes of illiteracy and promote a culture of learning.
The event concluded with a call to action, urging community members, educators, and authorities to support literacy initiatives. Participants were encouraged to integrate digital tools into literacy programs and provide accompaniment to educators on the ground. The celebration demonstrated the commitment of Togolese authorities to promoting literacy and addressing the needs of out-of-school populations.
The International Literacy Day celebration in Soumdina serves as a reminder of the importance of literacy in achieving sustainable development goals. As Togo continues to strive for progress, the government and stakeholders must prioritize literacy initiatives and work together to create a more inclusive and equitable education system. Key initiatives will focus on expanding access to literacy programs, integrating technology, and fostering community engagement.
Key points
- The event highlighted the need for collaborative efforts to address the root causes of illiteracy and promote a culture of learning in Togo.
- The celebration emphasized the importance of literacy for sustainable development, social justice, and economic growth.
- Togo's authorities are committed to promoting literacy and addressing the needs of out-of-school populations through initiatives and programs.
