How Illiteracy Affects a Society- The Importance of Education

Illiteracy means far more than the ability to read. Adults are definitely required to possess the ability to read, but they should also be able to understand texts, be functional in a workplace, make payments for bills, comprehend legal documents, handle their financial accounts and make proper use of technology. Indeed, literacy encompasses all these aspects. One could say that literacy is age-appropriate. After all, you would not expect a child to be able to do all these tasks. Nevertheless, depending on the age, you would expect a certain level of literacy. However, many adults are still functionally illiterate in the society. This has some serious repercussions on their own lives, as well as on the society. The ill effects of illiteracy on the society often spring from the negative impacts it has on the individual and prove the importance of education.

Effects of Illiteracy on the Individual

1. The person has a hard time in gathering or understanding information that might be crucial or urgent. Therefore, the chances of finding a decent job are considerably reduced. In fact, people who have a bachelor’s degree experience unemployment rate that is two to four times less than individuals with little to no schooling.

2. These people are more likely to live their entire life on a very modest salary. Their income is lower as they have to agree to take jobs of lower quality. Of course, this also means they have fewer opportunities for lifelong learning or development in their jobs. Their financial position is, subsequently, precarious.

3. Children from illiterate parents are less likely to succeed well in academics. This is because education and literacy have little value within the family unit. Also, a mother who has never been to school cannot help her children in her school work. Often, such parents prefer to avoid the subject of studies altogether.

Effects of Illiteracy on Society

1. Literacy is one of the most important tools in the new global knowledge market. In order for states and individuals to remain competitive in on the global arena, they need to demonstrate an excellent level of literacy. However, in societies where the literacy levels are significantly low, one can find vacant positions. This is due to the low number of personnel that is sufficiently trained and educated to hold them.

2. The gross domestic product of any country is highly affected by its literacy rate. In fact, they have a direct correlation. The growth rate is greatly slowed down as the number of adults with low literacy proficiency increases. This, illiteracy can hold down a society by preventing it from growing. This also has an impact on opportunities for the future generations.

How to Solve the Illiteracy Problem?

Illiteracy is undeniably an overwhelming issue to deal with. Whether as an individual or as a society, it can be challenging to solve the illiteracy problem. Nevertheless, a few things can indeed be done to help alleviate the problem. Tutoring is a great start. People who have benefited from higher levels of education should be encouraged to tutor in poor neighborhoods or nearby schools. Similarly, literacy support can also be offered in local community centers. Volunteering at basic education centers for adults is a good idea as well. On a higher level, individuals can get involved with national organizations such as AmeriCorps. Students can get involved in the fight against illiteracy by pursuing further education and creating awareness about importance of education.

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