While we celebrate International Literacy Day, it is important to admit that literacy in the 21st Century goes beyond the customary ability to read and write. In this dynamic world, marked by technological developments and digital pervasiveness, the demand for literacy from numeracy during the Industrial Revolution has changed to digital and other critical skills in the information age. Now, literacy includes or should include skills that focus on digital, media, financial, civic, and health literacies. These aptitudes are a must to navigate the complexities of modern life, engage meaningfully in society, and contribute to building informed, equitable, and resilient communities.
Digital Literacy: The Core of Modern Competence
In today’s technology-driven world, digital literacy has become a critical aspect of modern literacy that goes beyond basic technical skills. It encompasses the ability to critically assess online information, practice responsible online behaviour and understand cyber security. The recent Pandemic has emphasised the importance of digital literacy at work, in education, social interaction, and so on. It also revealed the significant disparities in digital access and skills. Imagine someone lacking basic digital skills trying to cope with the Aarogya Sethu App. The digital illiteracy and limited technology adoption leave a large population without essential services such as basic banking, finance, and e-commerce, rendering them unexplored outliers.
Media Literacy: Navigating the Information System
Media literacy empowers us to recognise bias, identify trustworthy sources and understand the broader context of media messages. With this, we can cultivate an informed and engaged public capable of making sound decisions based on accurate information.
In a time where fabricated and fake news are widespread, media literacy is vital for determining authentic information from deception. This spread of propaganda can have serious consequences, from political instability to crisis in public life. Assessment and valuation of content from various media sources, including news, social media, and entertainment, has become ever more critical.
Financial Literacy: To Empower Economic Participation
Financial literacy is particularly important for making informed financial decisions, avoiding debt, preventing exploitation, and building long-term financial security in a world where economic disparities are widening. This includes the understanding of fundamental concepts such as saving, budgeting, credit management, and investing.
We can prepare individuals with the skills needed to achieve economic stability and participate fully in the broader economy, contributing to overall financial well-being and resilience by integrating financial literacy into education and community programs.
Civic Literacy: Informed Citizenship to participate in Representative Practices
An important aspect of modern literacy is civic literacy, which includes understanding the rights and responsibilities of individuals, functioning methods of governments, and involvement in such activities. When there is a surge in political polarisation and disintegration, it becomes more important to sustain democratic societies. This empowers the common public to advocate for their civic rights and hold individuals responsible while ensuring social cohesion and mutual respect. The education system must give due importance to developing informed and active citizens who can create a just society and work for the betterment of communities and nations with democratic values.
Also Read: The Role Of Educational Publishers in Developing Future-Ready Graduates
Health literacy: To manage personal and public health
COVID-19 has highlighted the urgent need to understand health and medical information, knowledge about the pandemic, and how to fight against misinformation related to viruses, vaccines, and treatments spread widely, which causes confusion and mistrust, resulting in loss of life. By introducing and enhancing health literacy, a better individual, informed, and healthy society can be formed, which will be well-prepared and equipped to handle challenges during pressing times.
It is important to understand that literacy is dynamic and ever-evolving with societal changes and advancements. This new concept is not merely an educational goal but a collective priority, providing the foundation for addressing modern challenges and ensuring a more inclusive future for all. It reflects the diverse skills individuals need to navigate through modern life efficiently and effectively. By embracing this larger vision, we can better equip our people to make informed decisions, contribute to building an equitable and just society, and engage fully.
Views expressed by Ajay Kumar, Vice President, Primus Partners
