From an individual perspective, one needs adequate literacy skills to participate and function happily within – and contribute to – one’s communities.
From a collective perspective, a literate community is a dynamic community; a community that exchanges ideas, engages in dialogue is more innovative and productive. The sharing of ideas, perspectives and concerns also leads to greater levels of mutual understanding and caring, and ultimately strong community spirit.
Poor literacy can lead to the risk of exclusion for some individuals and some social groups.
Literacy is the first step towards freedom, towards liberation from social and economic constraints. It is the prerequisite for development, both individual and collective. It reduces poverty and inequality, creates wealth, and helps to eradicate problems of nutrition and public health. – Director-General of UNESCO, Audrey Azoulay