Illiteracy- speech writing, a call for action

Clarum Efficiunt Studia. The motto of our school is a powerful reminder of the importance of literacy in our society. As Ancient Roman philosopher Seneca the Younger once said, literacy is crucial for a just and equitable society.

I am Mariam Husain, Prefect and Interact club Secretary.

Interact, as the name suggests, with Mrs. Shukla, the powerhouse running it, gave me the opportunity to extend my privilege of education beyond its otherwise insulatory nature. 

I am here to attract your attention towards the socioeconomic significance of illiteracy which is Mumbai’s misfortune and something we can contribute to changing.

 In Mumbai, illiteracy has devastating consequences, including social alienation, environmental degradation, and exploitation of women. With a literacy rate of 89%, we still have a long way to go, with male literacy rates 15% higher than female literacy rates. Increasing female literacy will lead to a better gender balance, faster. 

Illiteracy creates misunderstandings, mistrust, and miscommunication, contributing to discrimination and prejudice. It upholds oppressive and patriarchal structures that marginalize the LGBTQI community, leading to a lowering of participation in the democratic process, lack of political representation, and further disenfranchisement. Among the grimmest effects of illiteracy are the exploitation and abuse of women and minors, including rampant sex trafficking. 

Illiteracy, by way of limited access to education, job opportunities, and information, fosters poverty. The consequent lack of resources further hinders literacy rates, trapping individuals and communities in a cycle of poverty and ignorance. 

Studies have linked literacy rates with crime rates and pollution levels. In India, Kera la has the highest literacy rate and the lowest rate of crimes against women, as well as the least amount of particulate matter concentration compared to other states. Literacy affects entire communities, making it crucial to promote it through social campaigns, volunteering, donations, and digital literacy initiatives. 

During my SUPW visit to Nepal, I had an uplifting conversation with middle school girls who had fn ncial ambitions a gift of literacy. We must recognize that promoting literacy is essential to  building an inclusive and progressive city and nation. As Malala Yousafzai famously state , one . child, one teacher, one book, one pen can change the world.” Let us work together to make Mumbai a shining example of what we are privileged to learn.